2008 Audi S4 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2008 Audi S4 is newer by 12 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 340 kg more than 2008 Audi S4.
Because 2008 Audi S4 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, 2008 Audi S4 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, 2008 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S4 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | S4 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2780 mm |
