2009 Audi A6 vs. 1988 Volvo 480

To start off, 2009 Audi A6 is newer by 21 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A6 (329 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A6 weights approximately 705 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 2009 Audi A6 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, 2009 Audi A6 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, 2009 Audi A6 (421 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Audi A6 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. 2009 Audi A6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A6 1988 Volvo 480
Make Audi Volvo
Model A6 480
Year Released 2009 1988
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4163 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 329 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 421 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84.5 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 83.5 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 200 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1745 kg 1040 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4260 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2850 mm 2510 mm