2007 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 19 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 324 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.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Golf | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 480 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1364 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
