2004 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 8 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 165 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Audi A4 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
