2009 Volvo XC90 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 19 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Volvo XC90. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 (400 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (263 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volvo XC90 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1369 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
