1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo S40. 2005 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 62 L |
