1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 331 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 480 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
