2007 BMW M3 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2007 BMW M3 is newer by 14 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (225 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M3 weights approximately 205 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 2007 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 2007 BMW M3. 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, 2007 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| 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 | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
