1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,463 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 (192 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190. (235 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 190 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
