2009 Volvo XC90 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Volvo XC90. (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo S70. 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo XC90. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 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 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3192 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1598 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
