1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2003 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2003 Opel Frontera is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,165 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Frontera (202 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Frontera weights approximately 330 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Frontera 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, 2003 Opel Frontera (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2003 Opel Frontera has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Frontera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2003 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
