2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V70 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 441 kg more than 1996 Volvo V70.
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, 1996 Volvo V70, 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V70. (275 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V70. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V70 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V70 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 | 1996 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | V70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 193 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
