2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
