1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 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 277 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 555 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 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:
1996 Volvo 850 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 850 | CLS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4663 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 402 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1890 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |