2008 Volvo S80 vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (281 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S80. (268 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo S80. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 (400 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S80. (380 Nm). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S80 | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
