1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 70 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 265 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 480 | A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
