1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 496 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.
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, 2008 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | S80 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
