2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 252 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SLK | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
