2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480.
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 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
