2003 Volvo C70 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2003 Volvo C70 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1989 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo C70 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | C70 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
