2006 BMW 530 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 10 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 177 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 2006 BMW 530 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 530. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 530 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
