1997 Chrysler Sebring vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Sebring. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Sebring 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 264 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 626 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 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 all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will offer significantly more control. 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) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (176 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Sebring has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Sebring 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:
| 1997 Chrysler Sebring | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sebring | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1882 mm |
