2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 515 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | 850 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |