2008 Ford Ka vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka 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 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 480 weights approximately 94 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. 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 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 58 L |
