2005 Nissan Primera vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2005 Nissan Primera is newer by 19 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Primera (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Primera should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Primera weights approximately 135 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, 2005 Nissan Primera, 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, 2005 Nissan Primera (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Primera | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Primera | 242 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2660 mm |
