1988 Volvo 740 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1988 Volvo 740.
Because 1988 Volvo 740 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 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volvo 740 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 740 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
