2008 BMW 316 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 15 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
