2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (178 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 117 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | S80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1698 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 16.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
