1996 Acura NSX vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1996 Acura NSX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP) has 163 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura NSX weights approximately 370 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Acura NSX 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 1996 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1996 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Acura NSX | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Acura | Volvo |
| Model | NSX | 480 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2510 mm |
