2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 125 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S60. (177 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 293 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2006 Volvo S60, 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) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S60. (240 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S60. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S60 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S60 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 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S60 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
