2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 590 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.
Because 2009 Volvo S40 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 480. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Volvo S40 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | S40 | 480 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1040 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |