2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Volvo 440

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1805 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz E 1989 Volvo 440
Make Mercedes-Benz Volvo
Model E 440
Year Released 2009 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1721 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.1:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 248 km/hour 167 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2830 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1830 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 48 L