Volvo 480 Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1986–1996) — First Generation
The Volvo 480 broke the brand's boxy mould: a low, wedge-shaped coupe with pop-up headlights and a glass tailgate, built around front-wheel drive and everyday practicality rather than outright sporting drama.
Every Volvo 480 engine is a gasoline four-cylinder driving the front wheels, so power arrives smoothly and the car stays light and easy to place. Manual gearboxes suit the eager, rev-happy character, while automatic versions trade a little response for relaxed town driving. Fuel-injected variants generally pull more willingly at higher revs.