2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 326 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
