2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 195 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| 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 |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1653 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
