2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (251 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 210 kg more than 1995 Volvo 850.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850, 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 2317 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
