1996 Volvo 960 vs. 1999 Acura RL
To start off, 1999 Acura RL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura RL weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL, 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, 1999 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1999 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 1999 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 1999 Acura RL | |
| Make | Volvo | Acura |
| Model | 960 | RL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2920 mm |
