2012 Nissan Xterra vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 479 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 Xterra 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 Xterra. 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 Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Xterra | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Xterra | S40 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 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 | 1879 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4539 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1902 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
