2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V70 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V70. (207 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Volvo V70. 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, 2003 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V70. (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V70. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V70 has manual transmission. 2003 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 | 2003 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | V70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
