1981 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1981 BMW 525.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1981 BMW 525 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
