1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1993 Volvo 850 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (223 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 BMW 2.8. (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 2.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 2.8. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 2.8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
