1987 Volvo 480 vs. 2012 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2012 Dodge Caliber is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Caliber (158 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 314 kg more than 1987 Volvo 480. 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, 2012 Dodge Caliber (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Volvo 480 | 2012 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Volvo | Dodge |
| Model | 480 | Caliber |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1719 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1334 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2634 mm |
