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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80.
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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
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 | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1550 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 |
