1992 BMW 850 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1992 BMW 850 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1992 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 850 weights approximately 420 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 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 1992 BMW 850. 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 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 850 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 58 L |
