2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 6 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 240 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 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 2009 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Nitro | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 62 L |
