2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 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 165 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960.
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, 2006 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 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 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 960 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 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 | 60 L | 80 L |
