2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 740
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 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 740. (116 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 920 kg more than 1989 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volvo 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 636 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 740. (194 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 740. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 740 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 740 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 740 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2780 mm |
