2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 66 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
