1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 10 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 60 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2006 Volvo S40. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1384 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
