2009 Volvo V50 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo V50 weights approximately 568 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, 2009 Volvo V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo V50 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 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 | 227 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 241 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 | 1598 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
