2008 Volvo XC90 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 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 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1042 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 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (440 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo XC90 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4414 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2102 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
