CHASING CARS
ASKING £9995 PRICE
ENGINE 2922cc/6-cyl/DOHC POWER 201bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 196lb ft@4300rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 131mph 0-60MPH 9sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 21-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed auto MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 54,666 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
With three litres and 24 valves to play with, this Volvo really moves when it’s prodded, but it’s the lack of drama that really surprises. The four-speed automatic gearbox has various modes (winter, economy and sport) and is a delight to use. This 960 benefits from suspension upgrades that were introduced for the 1996 model year, which tightened the handing up without affecting the excellent ride quality. The car feels effortless to drive, especially with the working cruise control. The rack-and-pinion steering is responsive and accurate and there’s virtually no body roll. The ABS brakes – vented discs at the front – are also excellent.
BODYWORK CHECK
We could find nothing to fault with this Volvo’s bodywork – not even a parking dent. The car looks virtually as new underneath and every panel gap – including on the scratch-free tailgate – appears perfect. The Olive Green pearl paintwork retains its original lustre, the alloy wheels are immaculate and the Continental tyres look new.
The mouldings are all free from cracks and the glass, mirrors and lenses are all unmarked.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
This car’s interior is where your checklist is really needed. Electric windows? Check. Heated seats? Check. Climate control, CD/tape with Dolby system, electric sunroof and wood-effect steering wheel rim? All check. Dog guard? Check! It’s all like new, as are the headlining and those sumptuous beige leather seats. The loading area appears to have seen little loading and the instruments do exactly what they should.
UNDER THE BONNET
This 960 runs extremely well and, not surprisingly given the car’s m
