2008 Audi A4 vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 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, 2008 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3187 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
