2008 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 149 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
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 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Polo | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1209 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
