Mercedes-Benz
E-class
Owner report available
Volvo
S80
Owner report available
Mercedes-Benz E-class vs Volvo S80
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz E-class comes out ahead of the Volvo S80 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
E-class
Overall
\nSentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and ownership context. For the W212 generation (approximately 2009-2016), owner feedback is generally positive regarding its solid build quality, reliability, and driving experience, with it being described as "pretty reliable" and "one of the best running cars" Mercedes has produced in recent decades. The W213 generation (approximately 2017-2023) receives praise for supreme comfort, refinement, and technology, particularly in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) diesel variants noted for excellent fuel economy.
Best version to buy
\nFor the W212 generation (2009-2016), the 2014-2017 model years are specifically recommended as being "well sorted." The E350 and E400 models with standard suspension (avoiding AIRMATIC air suspension if reliability is a priority) are cited as rock solid. For the W213 generation, the E300de (diesel plug-in hybrid) estate is highly praised for its combination of comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency.
Known issues
- \nHigh maintenance and repair costs: Includes expensive routine servicing, premium fuel requirement, costly parts (e.g., wiper motor, brake lines, air suspension components), and labor.
S80
Overall
Sentiment is divided by generation and is heavily dependent on maintenance history and specific powertrain. For the first-generation S80 (P2 platform, ~1998-2006), owner feedback is largely negative regarding reliability, with the twin-turbo T6 model and its automatic transmission singled out as particularly problematic and expensive. These early models are described as comfortable, smooth-riding, and safe, but are characterized as high-maintenance vehicles that become financially burdensome once issues begin.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" version. However, strong warnings are given against specific configurations: the first-generation (P2) T6 with its automatic transmission is widely advised against due to poor reliability.
Known issues
- **First Generation (P2, ~1998-2006):** * Automatic transmission failure (especially on T6 models): Very frequent. * General high cost of repairs and maintenance: Very frequent. * PCV system clogging: Recurrent.
- **Second Generation (P3, 2007-2016):** * High maintenance and repair costs: Very frequent. * Oil consumption (3.2L engine): Recurrent. * Transmission fluid neglect leading to potential issues: Recurrent.
The verdict
The Mercedes-Benz E-class is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Volvo S80, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Mercedes-Benz E-class are a dealbreaker, the Volvo S80 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mercedes-Benz E-class or the Volvo S80?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Mercedes-Benz E-class than the Volvo S80. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Mercedes-Benz E-class or the Volvo S80?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Mercedes-Benz E-class is classed as a Station wagon, the Volvo S80 as a Sedan, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz E-class or the Volvo S80?
The EPA rates the 2027 Mercedes-Benz E-class at 25–28 mpg combined and the 2016 Volvo S80 at 29 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mercedes-Benz E-class or the Volvo S80?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.