2005 Alpina Roadster vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2005 Alpina Roadster is newer by 16 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 596 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.
Because 2005 Alpina Roadster 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 2005 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alpina Roadster | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | Roadster | 440 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
