1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 780. (127 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 780. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 780 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1985 Volvo 780 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 1985 Volvo 780. 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, 1985 Volvo 780 (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 780 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 780 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2780 mm |
