1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 460 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLK | 480 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
