2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 446 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
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, 2009 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
