2007 Volvo S40 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (217 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 2007 Volvo S40 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, 2007 Volvo S40 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2007 Volvo S40 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. 2007 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo S40 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
