2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 3,723 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 440, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 440 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3723 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
