1988 Volvo 480 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 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 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 521 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.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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 S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2008 Volvo S80 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. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 480 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
