1993 Volvo 850 vs. 2010 BMW 125
To start off, 2010 BMW 125 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2010 BMW 125. (216 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 125. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2010 BMW 125. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 125 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 2010 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 125. (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 125.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Volvo 850 | 2010 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 53 L |
