1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2012 Audi A5
To start off, 2012 Audi A5 is newer by 16 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, 2012 Audi A5 (211 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A5 weights approximately 337 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 2012 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Audi A5 (349 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo 850 | 2012 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | 850 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1493 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2751 mm |
