1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S40 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
