2008 BMW M3 vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (251 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 110 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2317 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 73 L |
