2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 2 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (603 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 435 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 720 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 768 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 603 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
