2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 743 kg more than 1991 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | S-Max | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
