2008 Volvo V50 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 746 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V50. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V50. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo V50 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V50 | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
