2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1990 Volvo 480

To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 4,298 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1141 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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (353 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2008 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 GMC Sierra 1990 Volvo 480
Make GMC Volvo
Model Sierra 480
Year Released 2008 1990
Body Type Pickup Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4298 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 195 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 353 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.2:1 10.5:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 3 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2141 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 5710 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1880 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2510 mm