2008 Mini Cooper vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper 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, 2008 Mini Cooper (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper weights approximately 255 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.
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 Mini Cooper (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mini | Volvo |
| Model | Cooper | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 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 | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
