1991 Volvo 850 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,953 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (257 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850, 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (281 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volvo 850 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | 850 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2434 cc | 3953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
