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 20 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850.
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, 2009 BMW 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 850. (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 850.
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 | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
