1989 Volvo 480 Turbo review from UK and Ireland

Braking System.

Electic window, twice.

Leaks water into boot.

Electrical system has completly failed.

Servicing and repair costs are astronomical, and difficult, in fact almost impossible to perform yourself without specialist equipment.

Dealer backup and knowledge is abysmal, I had to learn how to set the turbo up for myself.

The engine has excellent reliability, I can leave it for months at a time and it still starts instantly.

However, the rest of the car is as reliable as an Ex-con who has just jumped bail. All of the electical equipment works as an when it feels, I think this is down to a knackered computer, but with seven wiring looms and hundreds of earths its almost impossible to be sure. The Volvo dealers have no idea, but said they would be more than willing to take £48 + VAT per hour while they find out.

The design and quality of the interior is very poor, with leaks in the boot and bits of trim coming off everywhere. Also the design of the window opening mechanism and doors make it easy for cables to jump off pulleys and they are a pain to replace.

On the plus side when the car was actually on the road with the turbo properly set, up the performance was admirable considering the cheap insurance and age of the car. Acceleration appears to be much greater than the claimed 0-60 in 8.8 seconds although top speed is hard to come by once into three figures. About 120 is top whack, but it can keep with older Porches and other sports cars up to 100.

Handling is top class for its time and the brakes are well up to modern standards. The only car I've driven that totaly canes it in the bends is the Ford Puma.

Most people bought 480's because they look ace. Mine has body coloured bumpers and mirrors with clear front indicators (as fitted by previous owner), but I find that nearly all owners stick with the standard wheels. To stand out from the heard I fitted a new set of 15's with 195/60 section boots by Avon. These not only improved the handling, but gave the car the final touch it needed and improved its looks 100%.