2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 730 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLK | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
