2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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 (280 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
