1998 Saturn SL vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1998 Saturn SL 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SL weights approximately 55 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 Saturn SL (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 480 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
