1996 Volvo 960 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B 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 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 960 (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 960 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 960 | B |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2472 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2699 mm |
