1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 7 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 208 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, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 1996 Hyundai Elantra 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. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Elantra | 440 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
