1978 Volvo 240 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 240 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2875 mm |
