1989 Volvo 440 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1106 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volvo 440. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 440 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
