2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1998 Volvo C70. (236 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 410 kg more than 1998 Volvo C70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo C70. (340 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | CLS | C70 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 402 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 600 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1882 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
