2009 Volvo S40 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 130 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 2009 Volvo S40 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, 2009 Volvo S40 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo S40 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S40 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
