1999 Porsche 996 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Porsche 996 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 106 more horse power than 1999 Porsche 996. (296 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1999 Porsche 996. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 561 kg more than 1999 Porsche 996. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Porsche 996. (357 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Porsche 996. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1999 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 1999 Porsche 996 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:
| 1999 Porsche 996 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 996 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3387 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 357 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2875 mm |
