1993 Volvo 960 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 360 kg more than 1993 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1993 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1993 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Volvo 960 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 960 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2875 mm |
