1990 Volvo 960 Photos, engines & full specs

Volvo introduced the 960 in 1990, replacing the aging 760 as its flagship model, and attacked the executive sedan market.

The Swedish automaker understood that the era of wedged shapes was gone and tried to pen the car rounder. In a way, it did that, but it also came up with solutions that make its customers feel safer in their vehicles. Unfortunately, it couldn't really compete against the German automakers. But still, it provided a well-deserved alternative for those looking for something different.

Like its 940 sibling, which was powered by inline-four engines, the 960 was packed with safety features, such as the SIPS (Side Impact Protection System), which was neatly concealed inside the B-pillars and door panels. In addition, the boxy sedan featured shaved corners and slightly curved body panels, although the overall shape remained similar to the former 740/760 Series.

Inside, the Swedish automaker offered higher quality materials, including leather upholstery on the entire range. The driver's airbag was fitted as standard, and Volvo even offered a CD player as an option. At the back, the three-person bench was fitted with an integrated child booster seat, which helped parents keep their kids safe on long journeys.

Under the hood, the 960 featured a completely new, inline-six gasoline engine that was developed together with some help from Porsche. The 24-valve powerplant wasn't the most powerful in the 900 series family, but its smoothness was second to none. It was paired with an improved four-speed automatic with three driving modes: sport, winter, and economy.