2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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 SLK (271 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (260 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | S80 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
