1969 Volvo 1800 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Volvo 1800 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volvo 1800 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 1969 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 1800. (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Volvo 1800 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 1800 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
