2007 Volvo S40 vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 1 kg more than 2007 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volvo S40. (225 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S40 | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Volvo | McLaren |
| Model | S40 | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
