1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. 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 Volvo V50, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2003 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2760 mm |
