1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
