2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | 480 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
