2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 15 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 157 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.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | 440 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
