1978 Audi 100 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1991 Volvo 850 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Audi 100 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 83 more horse power than 1978 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1978 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Audi 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Audi 100 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | 100 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
