2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (225 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, both vehicles can yield 300 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
