2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC90. (240 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC90.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
