In the days of 240s and 760s,
Volvos used to be easy to figure out. One was the cheap version, the other, the upscale model, but with both series you got
Volvo's safety, durability and unchanging style.
The model mix then became a little more muddled. The 8-series cars were front-drive and sporty, while the 9-series were traditional rear-drive vehicle and included both entry-level and upgrade models.
Things have become clearer for 1995. A redesign of the 960 makes the distinction between the 940 and the 960 more obvious.
The 4-cylinder 940 models remain essentially unchanged and are the least expensive Volvos, ranging from $23,820 to $26,120, including destination charges.
The extensive make-over inside, outside and underneath the 6-cylinder 960 models, however, clearly makes them the luxury Volvos (only the turbocharged 850 models have a higher base price).
With a strong list of standard items, the Volvo 960's base sticker price comes in at $30,360 including destination charges, which makes it a value when compared with many other comparably equipped cars in its class.
Our test model, a 960 sedan with a Cold Weather package that included heated seats and an outside temperature gauge, was priced at $30,710.
A
Volvo is a
Volvo is a
Volvo to many people. Boxy, t all, durable and safe, theses cars have a family resemblance that is pretty much unmistakable. For 1995, though, the 960 sedan gets and exterior make-over that rounds it sufficiently to improve the aerodynamics - its coefficient of drag drops form 0.34 to 0.32.
The 960's lower and smoother front lights, grilled and fenders anchor it more closely to the ground, while the body-colored bumpers soften the overall appearance.
Add in handsome 16-in. alloy wheels, Michelin all-season tires (205/55 VR-16) and our test car's lush metallic hunter green paint and the look verges on jaunty, in a dignified sort of way.
A revised multi-link rear suspension is available this year. The 960 sedan has seen this type of suspension before, but this is the first time it has been fitted on the 960 wagon.
A Volvo engineer's thoughts rarely stray from safety, and the all new 960 has several enhanced safety features.
When re-engineering the front suspension to lessen body roll and brake dive, engineers took the opportunity to add a diagonal cross-member that will manage crash forces better in an offset frontal collision (the sort of accident in which a car crossing from the other lane hits the front corner of your car).
Also, additional high-strength steel inserts in the front fender wells reduce the amount of wheel intrusion in an accident, and several energy-absorbing door inserts improve side-impact protection.
