1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 180 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo S40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S40 | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1731 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |