2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 500 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 960 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2780 mm |
