2005 BMW 730 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 BMW 730 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 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 730 (225 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 730 weights approximately 333 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 730 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 730. 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 730 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2005 BMW 730 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 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 730 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 730 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2670 mm |
