1978 BMW 628 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 628 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 628 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850.
Because 1978 BMW 628 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 1978 BMW 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1978 BMW 628 (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 628 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 628 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 628 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2670 mm |
