1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA
To start off, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Nissan ALTIMA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan ALTIMA weights approximately 186 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2013 Nissan ALTIMA (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan ALTIMA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2013 Nissan ALTIMA | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | S40 | ALTIMA |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4864 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1829 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2776 mm |
