1989 Volvo 244 vs. 2012 Honda Insight
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Insight (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 244. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 244 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2012 Honda Insight.
Because 1989 Volvo 244 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 1989 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Honda Insight, 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, 2012 Honda Insight (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 244 | 2012 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Volvo | Honda |
| Model | 244 | Insight |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1246 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2550 mm |
