2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile SS would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile SS. (238 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile SS.
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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1996 Oldsmobile SS (380 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (365 Nm). This means 1996 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1996 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Oldsmobile |
| Model | CLS | SS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
