2006 Audi S4 vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V90. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 Volvo V90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 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 V90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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, 2006 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V90. (261 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V90. 1996 Volvo V90 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi S4 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi S4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo V90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1996 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S4 | V90 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
