2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
