2007 Alpina D3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2007 Alpina D3 is newer by 11 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina D3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2007 Alpina D3.
Because 2007 Alpina D3 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 2007 Alpina D3. 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, 2007 Alpina D3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alpina D3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | D3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
