2002 Ford Ka vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 136 kg more than 1990 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | 480 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |
