1996 Volvo 850 vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 267 kg more than 1972 Volvo 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 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 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 850 | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 850 | 1800 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 153 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |