2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 146 kg more than 1996 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
Model | Sonata | 960 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3342 cc | 2472 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 1646 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2780 mm |