1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 130 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | S40 |
Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1870 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2560 mm |