1990 BMW 316 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
