2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 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 25 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 225 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 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 |
