2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volvo S80
To start off, 2013 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 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 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2013 Volvo S80. (237 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 259 kg more than 2013 Volvo S80. 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, 2013 Volvo S80, 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 (700 Nm) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volvo S80. (320 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1861 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1493 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
