2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (616 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 551 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. 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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 (500 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | V50 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 616 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 18.6 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
