2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP) has 276 more horse power than 2012 Volvo S80. (217 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 221 kg more than 2012 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo S80. (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
