1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 330 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S40 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |
