2003 BMW 320 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 73 kg more than 1994 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 320 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 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
