1988 Porsche 944 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 21 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 944. (160 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 332 kg more than 1988 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Volvo V50, 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, 2009 Volvo V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Porsche 944 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 944 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 62 L |
