2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 10 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 5 more horse power than 2013 Volvo XC90. (237 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2013 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 2013 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 2013 Volvo XC90. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2013 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2013 Volvo XC90 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 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| 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 | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2857 mm |
