2011 Dodge Nitro vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Dodge Nitro is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 407 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Dodge Nitro | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Nitro | S40 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1832 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4544 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1857 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1791 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2764 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 68 L |
