1986 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 480 (109 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 480 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1986 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, 1990 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Jetta | 480 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1271 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1000 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 |
