2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S40. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 411 kg more than 2011 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1579 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 57 L |
