2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 2001 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 558 kg more than 2001 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Volvo S80, 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 SL (800 Nm) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volvo S80. (280 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
