1990 Volvo 960 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 19 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 4,412 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (441 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2009 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. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Volvo 960 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 4412 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
