2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 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 65 kg more than 1996 Volvo V90.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 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 1996 Volvo V90. 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, 1996 Volvo V90 (261 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 1996 Volvo V90 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo V90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | V90 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
