2009 Subaru Outback vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (243 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 480.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (327 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Subaru Outback | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volvo |
| Model | Outback | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
