2009 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 289 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 850 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 77 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |