1970 Volvo 145 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1991 Volvo 850 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1970 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo 145 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 145 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
