2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Volvo 740
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 620 kg more than 1988 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 461 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 740. (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 740 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2780 mm |
