2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 6,208 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 1997 Volvo S70. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
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, 1997 Volvo S70, 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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 411 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 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 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 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 | 631 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
