2003 Volvo S40 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 365 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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
