1959 Volvo 120 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 310 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volvo 120 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 120 | A |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
