2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 675 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | CLS | 480 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |