2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 19 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 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 560 kg more than 1989 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | XLR | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2510 mm |
