2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 675 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
