2009 Nissan Sentra vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Sentra (138 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 89 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2009 Nissan Sentra (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Sentra | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Sentra | V40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
