2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1973 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 565 kg more than 1973 Volvo 1800. 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volvo 1800. (154 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1973 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
