2006 BMW 316 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 BMW 316 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 316 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850.
Because 2006 BMW 316 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 2006 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 316 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
