1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2002 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo XC90 (268 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 797 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Porsche 944. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2002 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 944 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2142 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
