1979 BMW 320 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1993 Volvo 850 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 418 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (223 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
Because 1979 BMW 320 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 1979 BMW 320. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
