1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2004 Volvo V70
To start off, 2004 Volvo V70 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V70 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V70 weights approximately 145 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Volvo V70 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2004 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
