2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Volvo 244
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 244. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 548 kg more than 1989 Volvo 244. 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 (470 Nm) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 244 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1296 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 |
