1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 16 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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 617 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
