1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 15 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 398 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2003 Volvo V50 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. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2760 mm |
