2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volvo S60

To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 5 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S60. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 456 kg more than 2008 Volvo S60. 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, 2008 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S60. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S60.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 2008 Volvo S60
Make Mercedes-Benz Volvo
Model SL S60
Year Released 2003 2008
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 2399 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 493 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 800 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 250 km/hour 200 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.7 seconds 11.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2025 kg 1569 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 14.7 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L