1994 Volvo 850 vs. 2011 BMW X3
To start off, 2011 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X3 weights approximately 473 kg more than 1994 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW X3 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850. 2011 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1994 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1994 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Volvo 850 | 2011 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 850 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2807 mm |
