Sweden vs West Germany — 1982 vs 1979
| 780 Bertone Turbo | S-Class W126 560 SEC | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 214 lb-ft | 336 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,316 cc | 5,547 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,076 lbs | 3,924 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,770 mm | 2,850 mm |
| Length | 4,785 mm | 4,935 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,518 | 74,060 |
| Original MSRP | $29,950 | $73,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo offers lighter weight, greater rarity, better value, while the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC counters with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When Sweden engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo and 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 182 hp, a 118-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 780 uses a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC displacing 2,316 cc, while the Mercedes-Benz S-Class relies on a V8 SOHC with 5,547 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Volvo 780 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 848 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 8,518 units built, the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Mercedes-Benz S-Class's 74,060 examples. On the collector market, the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC commands a significant premium over the 1982 Volvo 780 Bertone Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1979 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 560 SEC rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.