2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 515 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.
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 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Spectra | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
