1996 Lexus SC vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1996 Lexus SC 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 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 608 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 1996 Lexus SC 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 1996 Lexus SC. 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, 1996 Lexus SC (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 1996 Lexus SC 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 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | SC | 440 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 80 L |
