2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 240. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 kg more than 1989 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 543 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 240. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 240 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 | 1989 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 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 |
