2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Altima. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo C30 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2002 Nissan Altima. 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Altima. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | C30 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 60 L |
