1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 16 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 270 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S40 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2431 mm |
