2003 Acura EL vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2003 Acura EL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura EL (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura EL weights approximately 124 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura EL | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Acura | Volvo |
| Model | EL | 460 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1668 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
