2008 BMW 523 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 523 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
