1977 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 1988 Volvo 440 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 440 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 440 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Volvo 440 (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 440 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2780 mm |
