1990 Nissan Micra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1990 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1990 Nissan Micra. 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Nissan Micra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Micra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 666 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2570 mm |
