1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2010 Volvo C30
To start off, 2010 Volvo C30 is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2010 Volvo C30.
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, 2010 Volvo C30, 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, 2010 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2010 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 960 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1453 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2639 mm |
