2005 Volvo V50 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 16 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50.
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, 2005 Volvo V50 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo V50 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
