1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2012 Audi S5
To start off, 2012 Audi S5 is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Audi S5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi S5 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi S5 weights approximately 455 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 2012 Audi S5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi S5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Audi S5 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2012 Audi S5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2012 Audi S5 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. 2012 Audi S5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2012 Audi S5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 960 | S5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2751 mm |
