2006 Cadillac STS vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Cadillac STS is newer by 18 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 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac STS (253 HP) has 145 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac STS weights approximately 782 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 2006 Cadillac STS 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 2006 Cadillac STS. 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, 2006 Cadillac STS (342 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2006 Cadillac STS 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. 2006 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac STS | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | STS | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3563 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
