2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | C | S40 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1870 cc |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 177 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2560 mm |