2004 Volvo S60 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 8 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 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Volvo S60.
Because 1996 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 1996 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S60 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S60 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
