2003 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 450 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 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2003 BMW X3 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 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
