1995 Volvo 850 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 7 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 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 BMW Z3.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Volvo 850 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 850 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
