2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 325 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
