2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1989 Volvo 740
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,505 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 740. (116 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 101 kg more than 1989 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Volvo 740 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 1989 Volvo 740. 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 740. (194 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1989 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | 740 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2505 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2780 mm |
