2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 240 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 240 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2660 mm |
