1988 Volvo 480 vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
Because 1978 Volvo 240 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 1978 Volvo 240. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
