2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 505 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
