1994 Volvo 960 vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,473 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 960 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
Because 1994 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 1994 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 960. (233 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 960 | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2473 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
