1990 BMW 320 vs. 1992 Volvo 850
To start off, 1992 Volvo 850 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 850 (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1990 BMW 320. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 850 weights approximately 204 kg more than 1990 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (230 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 320. (224 Nm). This means 1992 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 1992 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
