1992 Volvo 480

The concept was to design a front-wheel drive car with an integral computer to control the advanced electronics found in the car. Unfortunately, the necessary technology was still in its infancy, and the 480 was plagued with electrical problems. Revisions in the early 1990s saw improved reliability.

Offsetting these problems, the car had excellent handling, due in no small part to its Lotus-designed suspension, and a series of reliable Renault engines, tuned by Porsche.

In 1988, a Turbo version was introduced, increasing the power from 109PS (108hp/ 80kW) to 120PS (118hp/ 88kW). Maximum torque was 175N·m (129lb·ft) instead of 140N·m (103lb·ft) for the naturally-aspirated 1.7L engine. In 1993, due to new legislation which meant that catalytic converters had to be fitted to unleaded petrol engines, power dropped and so the 2.0L engine was developed; it was rated at 110PS (108hp/ 81kW) and 165N·m (122lb·ft).

In 1992 the 480 was given new mirrors, and headrests for the back seats, along with subtle modifications to the trim and body-colour bumpers. A 2.0 naturally aspirated engine was also introduced, and the computer-controlled electronics underwent revisions. Changes between the CEM (Central Electronic Module) are externally apparent with the introduction of a total closure system whereby the key can be held in the lock position to close the windows and (where fitted) sunroof. Earlier CEM modules feature a "passing" function for the wipers, whereby fully depressing the accelerator pedal will switch intermittent wipers to full.