2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 960 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4964 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
