2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 240. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 36 kg more than 1989 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 240. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2660 mm |
