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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 785 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
