1998 BMW 323 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 5 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 97 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
