1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Volvo 66
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 66.
Because 1979 Volvo 66 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 1979 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 66. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 66 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
