2003 Volvo V50 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 382 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 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 Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1438 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
