1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 12 kg more than 1996 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 960 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Volvo | Nissan |
Model | 960 | Altima |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2472 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2675 mm |