2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (304 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 730 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 Cadillac CTS 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 2009 Cadillac CTS. 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Cadillac CTS 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 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | CTS | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 304 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 58 L |
