1996 Ford Escort vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 480 (109 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 80 kg more than 1989 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, 1989 Volvo 480 (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Escort | 480 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
