2004 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 2004 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 375 kg more than 1996 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 440, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus IS | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Lexus | Volvo |
| Model | IS | 440 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
