1989 Volvo 480 vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volvo 1800 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volvo 1800 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1972 Volvo 1800 (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 480 | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
