1996 Volvo V90 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V90. (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1996 Volvo V90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 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 V90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80, 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (401 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V90. (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V90. 2009 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V90 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V90 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V90 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
