1989 BMW 850 vs. 2004 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Volvo C70 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2004 Volvo C70. (197 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo C70 weights approximately 321 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 1989 BMW 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo C70, 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo C70. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo C70. 1989 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2004 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 68 L |
