1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 250 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
