1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra is newer by 7 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 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. 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, 2003 Vauxhall Vectra, 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, 1996 Volvo 960 (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Vectra. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra 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. 2003 Vauxhall Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2003 Vauxhall Vectra | |
| Make | Volvo | Vauxhall |
| Model | 960 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
