2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1994 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 401 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 955 kg more than 1994 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 580 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 480. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1994 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1994 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1994 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
