1988 Volvo 740 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 740 (156 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 740 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volvo 740 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 740 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2510 mm |
