1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 325 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.
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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 480 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
