1989 Volvo 480 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe (320 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1556 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 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe 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 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe. 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, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe (454 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 480 | 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe | |
| Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
| Model | 480 | Tahoe |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 2556 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5131 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2007 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1953 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2946 mm |
