1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 (216 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 230 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
