2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1000 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 524 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
