2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 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, 1985 Volvo 780 (127 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 294 kg more than 1985 Volvo 780.
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, 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 780 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 780 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
