2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, both 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL and 2008 Volvo S40 were released in the same year (2008). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 303 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
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, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.5 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 | 1825 kg | 1522 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
