1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Volvo V50
To start off, 2010 Volvo V50 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo V50 weights approximately 503 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 2010 Volvo V50 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo V50 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 2010 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2010 Volvo V50 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 | 2010 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | V50 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4521 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 57 L |
