2009 BMW 530 vs. 1993 Volvo 850

To start off, 2009 BMW 530 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 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 530. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1993 Volvo 850.

Because 2009 BMW 530 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 530. 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 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 530 1993 Volvo 850
Make BMW Volvo
Model 530 850
Year Released 2009 1993
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 2319 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 500 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1760 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4660 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 73 L