1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2009 Volvo C30
To start off, 2009 Volvo C30 is newer by 12 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 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo C30 weights approximately 578 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, 2009 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C30 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 | 2009 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
