1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2006 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | S40 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
