1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2007 Volvo C70
To start off, 2007 Volvo C70 is newer by 11 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), 2007 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C70 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C70 weights approximately 161 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, 2007 Volvo C70, 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, 2007 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2007 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| 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 | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
