2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 155 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
