1991 Volvo 960 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 960. (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 960 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1991 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 1991 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat, 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Volvo 960 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 960 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2720 mm |
