2002 Lexus IS vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 510 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | IS | 440 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 80 L |
