2006 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
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, 2006 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Optima | 960 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
