2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 692 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 S (800 Nm) has 570 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V50 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.5 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.8 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
