1970 Volvo P 1800 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1970 Volvo P 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volvo P 1800 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1970 Volvo P 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 1970 Volvo P 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, 1970 Volvo P 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo P 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo P 1800 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | P 1800 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
