2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 373 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 665 kg more than 1987 Volvo 240. 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 (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 543 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 240. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1987 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1987 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
