1998 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 318 | 850 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2434 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |