1990 Volvo 480 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 22 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 609 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480.
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, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 480 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 480 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2776 mm |
