1989 Volvo 440 vs. 2008 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2008 Panoz Esperante is newer by 19 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Panoz Esperante (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 475 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 2008 Panoz Esperante 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 2008 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 2008 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 2008 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Volvo | Panoz |
| Model | 440 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 59 L |
