2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 440 kg more than 1997 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40, 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 CLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLK | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
