2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1996 Volvo S40
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 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 687 kg more than 1996 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 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 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 CLS (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 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 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6207 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.2 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1905 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
