1988 Porsche 944 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 944 (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 77 kg more than 1988 Porsche 944.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 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 1988 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40, 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, 1988 Porsche 944 (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1988 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 944 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 104 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1433 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2650 mm |
