1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2000 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2000 Mercury Cougar is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 270 kg more than 1988 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, both vehicles can yield 176 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2000 Mercury Cougar has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mercury Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2000 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercury |
| Model | 480 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
