1990 Volvo 480 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 339 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 480 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 227 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
