1989 Volvo 440 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 1,798 cc, 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 330 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volvo S40 (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 440 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1798 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
