2012 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 550 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Pathfinder | S40 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2008 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4884 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1829 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
