2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 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 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 960 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
