1990 Volvo 960 vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 1996 Volvo S80 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80.
Because 1990 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 1990 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80, 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, 1996 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (263 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 1996 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
