2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 585 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, 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 CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | V40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
