1997 Volvo 960 Review
1997 Volvo 960 Review
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Used 960 for sale
Appraise This CarVolvo 960 model years
Volvo 960 types
- Wagon
- Sedan
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
What’s new
Automatic load leveling joins the options list for the wagon, while tailored leather seating is no longer available on the wagon.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1997 Volvo 960 4dr Sedan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$223/mo for 960 Base
960 Base
vs
$181/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Vehicle overview
Don't expect the 960 to hang around forever. Next year, Volvo's product line expands with the addition of the sporty C70 Coupe, the new 850 sedan and wagon, and an Outback-like 850 T-5 Wagon sporting all-wheel drive. When these new image models arrive, the 960 will become even more redundant than it already is.
The 960's styling is attractive, and cuts wind drag at speed. Under the clean lines are a strong chassis and competent suspension. The 2.9L V6 produces its power and torque peaks at low rpm for better driveability. The business-like interior contains a few oddly placed controls, but is a nice place to spend time. Seats are supremely comfortable front and rear. Still, the fact remains that this car is smaller inside, heavier, and more expensive than the 850. Worse, it's less powerful than all but the base 850, and gets worse gas mileage.
What's the 960 got going for it? A full load of standard equipment, for starters. Leather interior, alloy wheels, power sunroof, anti-lock brakes, automatic climate control, premium sound system, heated exterior mirrors, dual power seats, and a multitude of power accouterments are all included in the base price. Rear-wheel drive for better balance and dry-weather handling is a plus. Wagons add an integrated child safety seat. Standard side-impact airbags are nice, and the creased sheetmetal stands out in a class of look-alike blob-mobiles.
The 960 competes in the overcrowded near-luxury segment, and is a good choice for folks looking for something a little different. Fully optioned, a 960 sedan runs about $36,000. But does it offer value? We don't think so, particularly with the larger, more powerful 850 GLT sitting next to it in the showroom.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1997 Volvo 960.
5 star(55%)
4 star(30%)
3 star(15%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
33 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.38 out of 5 stars
A great and comfortable family hauler
ivorytickler, 03/04/2011
1997 Volvo 960 4dr Wagon
We've owned Volvo for years, and traded a 1988 740 Turbo for our current 1997 960 in September 2001.
Our current mileage is 169,000, and other than routine maintenance, our car has been reliable, comfortable and trouble-free.
Yes, the plastic interior bits do tend to fall off and the sunroof leaks, but the car's long-distance comfort, safety, and high spec make it an ideal purchase for … those on a budget who desire a safe, solid and agile vehicle.
The key is to find a good mechanic who specializes and let him look after the maintenance.
Running costs are much less than a Mercedes or BMW.
We average 20mpg city/26 hwy.
The '98 V70 is the same car, and the last year for this body style.
4.13 out of 5 stars
Safe Luxo wagon
David B, 09/01/2008
1997 Volvo 960 4dr Wagon
We purchased our 960 wagon because my uncle got 375k miles out of his 93 960 wagon, so I figured there must be something to be said about the build quality and the reputation of Volvo. This car is a comfort on long drives and handles surprisingly well for a wagon. The big soft leather heated seats are wonderful and welcoming on cold days. This car is very classy and understated. We … have not had any serious repairs other than routine service. Remember as with any European luxury car, you have to pay to play. If you want a car that you can feel really good about driving your family around in and not worry about who will steal or scratch it this is the car.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Swedish Delight
FnotY, 05/11/2002
1997 Volvo 960 4dr Wagon
I think that the 700/900 series Volvos
were by far the best. The rear wheel
drive design (which is well balanced
front to rear) gives the best of both
worlds regarding ride & traction. With
the styling update that occured in
1995, the 960 became, in my opinion,
one of the most beautiful cars on the
road.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Love My 960 Wagon
Jenna, 02/05/2009
1997 Volvo 960 4dr Wagon
This is the most favorite car that I've owned (Nissan Maxima - 2 of them and an Acura Legend). January 2009 turned over 200K miles. Smooth ride and super dependable. Power is there when needed, so don't underestimate this car where performance is concerned. Premium fuel must be used, always. I average in-town 20.4 miles per gallon. Regular maintenance by Volvo specialized mechanic is … paramount. I wish they still made these cars.
1997 960 Highlights
Wagon
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $223/month |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 39.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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