2001 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 5 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2780 mm |
