2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1989 Volvo 244
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 244. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 244 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1989 Volvo 244 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 1989 Volvo 244. 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 (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1989 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 244 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
