Sweden vs Sweden — 1996 vs 1984
| 850 R AWD | 740 Turbo Intercooler Estate | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,319 cc | 2,316 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 127 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,329 lbs | 3,042 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,664 mm | 2,770 mm |
| Length | 4,706 mm | 4,785 mm |
| Original MSRP | $36,700 | $22,490 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 4/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1996 Volvo 850 R AWD brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1984 Volvo 740 Turbo Intercooler Estate answers with lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Volvo has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1996 Volvo 850 R AWD with the 1984 Volvo 740 Turbo Intercooler Estate highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1996 Volvo 850 R AWD holds a clear advantage in raw power with 250 hp compared to 160 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volvo 850 uses a Inline-5 DOHC Turbo displacing 2,319 cc, while the Volvo 740 Turbo relies on a Inline-4 Turbo SOHC with 2,316 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Volvo 850 R AWD edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 8.2 seconds. The Volvo 740 Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 287 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.