1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2006 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
