2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 646 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.
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 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
