2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 635 kg more than 1990 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, 2009 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | DTS | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2510 mm |
