2009 BMW 525 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 73 L |
