1991 Volvo 240 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 36 kg more than 1991 Volvo 240.
Because 1991 Volvo 240 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 1991 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volvo 240 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2570 mm |
