1990 Volvo 480 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (123 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 698 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.
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, 2003 Volvo V50 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 480 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
