1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 8 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 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 25 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2004 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. 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 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 2004 BMW 316 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. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 850 | 2004 BMW 316 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | 850 | 316 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1493 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |