2005 Nissan Altima vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,490 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Nissan Altima. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Nissan Altima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 77 kg more than 2005 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (330 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Altima. (244 Nm). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Altima | V50 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.6 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
