1970 Volvo 140 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volvo 140 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440.
Because 1970 Volvo 140 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1989 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo 140 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 140 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
