2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (201 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 690 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 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (451 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2004 Audi A4 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. 2004 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
