2009 BMW 120 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 16 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. 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, 2009 BMW 120 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 73 L |
