2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 213 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960.
Because 1990 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 1990 Volvo 960. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max, 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, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (263 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | S-Max | 960 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
