1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 43 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 122 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (275 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
