2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 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 6,206 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | S40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6206 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
