1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 250 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
