1978 Volvo 66 vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 Volvo 66. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Volvo 850 (170 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 66 | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 66 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
