2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 513 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | 350Z | 460 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 977 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
