1995 Volvo 850 vs. 1999 BMW 730
To start off, 1999 BMW 730 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 730 weights approximately 411 kg more than 1995 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 730 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 1999 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1999 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850. 1999 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 1995 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1995 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Volvo 850 | 1999 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 730 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 90 L |
