2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (281 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Volvo S80.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
