2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 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 205 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (178 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 326 kg more than 1998 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 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 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
