The invention relates to a drive for an actuating unit, especially for a power closing mechanism, preferably for a motor vehicle lock, comprising a motor housing part for accommodating an electric motor and a housing cover part for covering the motor housing part, a cable for electrically conducting current being electrically connected to a motor contact of the electric motor in the motor housing part and the cable comprising a diversion zone. The diversion zone of the cable is arranged outside or at least partially outside the housing. In this manner, the cable is not unduly bent during assembly when the housing is closed.