2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 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 2,987 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 347 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 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, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2327 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 10.6 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 | 1785 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
