2009 Saturn Aura vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Saturn Aura 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Aura (169 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Aura weights approximately 344 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 Saturn Aura (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Aura | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | Aura | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
