This Volvo will not be mistaken for a sports sedan, but several changes for 1995 make it a better-handling and more responsive car. The front suspension has been redesigned along the lines of the sportier 850. body roll has been reduced 35 percent; the 960 dives less while braking and stays flatter during cornering.As always, the 960 sedan has excellent road feel and a predictable response. The changes to the front suspension don't' alter the car's tight and maneuverable 31.8-ft turning radius. The 960's 2.9-liter DOHC 24-valve in-line 6-cylinder engine has been retuned for American driving habits. By dropping some maximum horsepower, the 181-hp engine delivers more torque - 199 lb.-ft. - down low. That made our test model a much better freeway merger, as well as being a little quicker off the line. The transmission in the 960 is a 4-speed automatic with economy, sport and winter-wet modes. the winter mode, in which the car starts out in third gear, is highly effective in snowy areas and a good alternative to the extra control of the manual transmission. Driving the 960 was a thoroughly pleasant experience, with a firm but not harsh ride. The multi-link rear suspension, in particular, helped deliver a smooth ride without any handling surprises. One note: It is recommended that you use premium fuel in the Volvo 960. this is a particularly important consideration when car shopping because of the fluctuating nature of gasoline prices.
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