1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. (127 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. (196 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. 2006 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 250 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
