2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP) has 153 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 442 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 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Frontier | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5580 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
