2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1963 Volvo 120
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP) has 537 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. 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 SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 854 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1963 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2110 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
