2009 Saturn Astra vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 113 kg more than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Saturn Astra | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
