1999 Volvo S80 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 9 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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 (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volvo S80 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
