2009 Honda Element vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 129 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Element | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
