1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 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, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960.
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, 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2011 Hyundai Sonata (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2011 Hyundai Sonata 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. 2011 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 960 | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Volvo | Hyundai |
Model | 960 | Sonata |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4821 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1834 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2794 mm |