2003 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 14 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (139 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 335 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero 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. 2003 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Oldsmobile Alero | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Alero | 440 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 48 L |
