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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 790 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 2005 Volvo S40 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (320 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 | 2998 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
