2007 Volvo S80 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S80. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S80 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2007 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 2007 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S80 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S80 | SLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1616 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
