2002 Subaru Outback vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 14 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 490 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.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2002 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Subaru Outback | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Outback | 480 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
