2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 61 more horse power than 2012 Volvo C30. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 279 kg more than 2012 Volvo C30. 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, 2012 Volvo C30, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo C30. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo C30. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo C30 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 | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | C30 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
