2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volvo 245
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 245. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1492 kg more than 1980 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 245 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 1980 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 245 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| 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 | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2660 mm |
