1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 112 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V70. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V70. 2008 Volvo V70 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 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 850 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
