2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (268 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 267 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 16.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
