2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 259 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | 350Z | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
