2008 BMW 318 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318.
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, 1994 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
