1990 Volvo 960 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 16 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40.
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, 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
