1989 Volvo 440 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 23 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 338 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, 2012 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 2012 Opel Astra 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. 2012 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 440 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
