2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 34 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | S40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
