1996 Volvo V40 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 380 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V40 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1731 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 8 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 409 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
