1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2008 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2008 Opel Zafira is newer by 12 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Zafira (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Zafira weights approximately 293 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, 2008 Opel Zafira (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2008 Opel Zafira 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. 2008 Opel Zafira will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2008 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1628 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 58 L |
