1988 Volvo 440 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (311 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 572 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Volvo 440. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (441 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 440 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 440 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1602 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
