2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 2002 Volvo S80. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1405 kg more than 2002 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volvo S80. (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
