1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 20 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C30. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 311 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
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, 2008 Volvo C30 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 52 L |
