1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 459 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
