2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 280 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 Volvo 480 (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
