1987 Saab 900 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 1996 Volvo 960 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1987 Saab 900.
Because 1996 Volvo 960 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 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900, 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, 1987 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Saab 900 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 900 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
