1992 BMW 538 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1992 BMW 538 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 538 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 538. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW 538 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 538 | 850 |
Year Released | 1992 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2434 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 341 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |