1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 15 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 580 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.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 850 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | 850 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1970 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2969 mm |