1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 850 | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1493 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
