1997 BMW S3 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (225 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 82 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (300 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | S3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
