1999 BMW 318 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 6 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (192 HP @ 7250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. 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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (300 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
