1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S40 weights approximately 34 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | 300 | S40 |
Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 188 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1579 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4475 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2639 mm |