2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 715 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (706 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 530 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | V40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 706 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
