1974 Volvo 244 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 244 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 374 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. 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, 1974 Volvo 244 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 244 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 1974 Volvo 244 has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 244 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 244 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 244 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2125 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
