2009 BMW 320 vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 18 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 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2434 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
