1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volvo 260
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 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 260. 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 (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | A | 260 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1687 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |