2002 Nissan Altima vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2002 Nissan Altima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | V40 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
