2009 Toyota Prius vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 330 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Prius | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Prius | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
