2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1989 Volvo 440

To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 19 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 651 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford S-Max 1989 Volvo 440
Make Ford Volvo
Model S-Max 440
Year Released 2008 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2521 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 217 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 4100 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.8:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 230 km/hour 175 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1681 kg 1030 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1660 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2780 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.4 L/100km 8.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L