2009 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 13 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 500 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1590 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 858 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CL | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
