1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 96 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 62 L |
