1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2010 BMW 118
To start off, 2010 BMW 118 is newer by 14 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, 2010 BMW 118 (177 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 98 kg more than 2010 BMW 118.
Because 2010 BMW 118 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 2010 BMW 118. 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, 2010 BMW 118 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2010 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 850 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1493 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
