2006 BMW M3 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1994 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
