1994 Volvo 850 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 4 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 850 weights approximately 392 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 850 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
