1984 Nissan Prairie vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Prairie would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1984 Nissan Prairie. 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, 1996 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Nissan Prairie | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Prairie | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
