2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1966 Volvo 144
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 558 kg more than 1966 Volvo 144.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 144. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 144.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1966 Volvo 144 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 144 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 124 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
