1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,777 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Volvo 120 (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 110 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120.
Because 1968 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 120 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
