1990 Volvo 960 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 51 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50.
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 V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (263 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
