2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 88 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | 242 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
