1998 Lexus ES vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES is newer by 9 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 470 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 1998 Lexus ES 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. 1998 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | ES | 440 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
