2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 440 weights approximately 64 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Explorer | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
