2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1983 Volvo 740
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 740. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 740 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1983 Volvo 740 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 1983 Volvo 740. 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, 1983 Volvo 740 (190 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1983 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 740 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
