2001 BMW M vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 5 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2001 BMW M 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 2001 BMW M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2001 BMW M (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M | 850 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
