1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (167 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960.
Because 1990 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 1990 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (230 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
