2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 20 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 320 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caliber | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
