1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 278 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 (287 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 350 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 350 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 60 L |
