2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (216 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 695 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 680 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2523 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2120 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |