2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 15 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 350 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (162 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Vectra | 480 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
