1989 BMW 316 vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 1995 Volvo 850 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,982 cc (5 cylinders), 1995 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1989 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 316 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 1989 BMW 316. 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 @ 4800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1995 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 316 | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
