2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 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 86 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40.
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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
