1984 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 1987 Volvo 480 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,719 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volvo 480 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1987 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1987 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | 480 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
