1998 Opel Astra vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 228 kg more than 1988 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, 1998 Opel Astra (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 480 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 58 L |
