1968 Volvo 145 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 203 kg more than 1968 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volvo 145 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 145. (153 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 145 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 145 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
