2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (328 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 850. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 850 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
