2005 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 5 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 2005 BMW 318 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 2005 BMW 318. 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, 2005 BMW 318 (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2005 BMW 318 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. 2005 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
