1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (235 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 110 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 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (246 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 190 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |
