2009 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2009 Nissan Pathfinder.
Because 2009 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder. 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 Nissan Pathfinder (391 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Pathfinder | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Pathfinder | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
