1971 Jensen SP vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jensen SP. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen SP would be higher. At 7,206 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen SP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen SP (385 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen SP should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Jensen SP weights approximately 326 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Jensen SP 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 1971 Jensen SP. 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, 1971 Jensen SP (557 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen SP will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 1971 Jensen SP has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Jensen SP will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jensen SP | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Jensen | Volvo |
| Model | SP | 850 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7206 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
