2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 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 7 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2004 Nissan Altima.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | 960 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2489 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2780 mm |
