2009 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Beetle | 460 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
