2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, 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 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | V40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
