2007 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 430 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 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volvo 850. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 58 L |
