1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-7 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2011 Mazda CX-7. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 86 kg more 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 Mazda CX-7, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda CX-7. (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda CX-7. 2011 Mazda CX-7 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 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2011 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 960 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2751 mm |
