1992 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 525 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 525 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 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, 1992 BMW 525 (260 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 525 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
