2008 BMW 330 vs. 1995 Volvo 850

To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1995 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 1995 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1995 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 330 1995 Volvo 850
Make BMW Volvo
Model 330 850
Year Released 2008 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1982 cc
Horse Power 228 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 6100 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1390 kg
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2670 mm