1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volvo 240
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 240 (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 240 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 240. 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, 1980 Volvo 240 (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | A | 240 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 152 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1440 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |