2006 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo 145 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 12 kg more than 1971 Volvo 145.
Because 1971 Volvo 145 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 1971 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 1971 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | B | 145 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |
