2003 Alpina B7 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 Alpina B7 is newer by 7 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 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B7 weights approximately 497 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B7 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 2003 Alpina B7. 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, 2003 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2003 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alpina B7 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Alpina | Volvo |
Model | B7 | 850 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4399 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 492 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1493 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |