2008 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2008 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 58 L |
