1990 Volvo 960 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (388 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
