As the owner of an old Volvo—often affectionately referred to as my “old Volvo”—I sometimes get asked what makes the Volvo 850 so special. The answer goes beyond just the car’s features; it has a rich history and legacy, especially tied to its appearance in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) in the mid-1990s.
Volvo made a bold move in 1994 by entering the BTCC with a wagon version of the 850, famously making it one of the few station wagons to compete in professional motorsport. The decision was groundbreaking at the time and helped redefine perceptions of Volvo as a manufacturer. Driven by Rickard Rydell and Jan Lammers, the 850 Estate in BTCC drew a lot of attention for its unconventional design and solid performance on the track. Though it didn’t win the championship, it performed admirably and left a lasting impression on motorsport fans worldwide. By 1995, Volvo had moved to the saloon version, the 850R, which went on to become iconic due to its competitive performance, durability, and power.
For fans like myself, the 850R’s legacy in BTCC is part of what makes it so special. I was just a student at the time, unable to afford one, but the excitement and admiration for the car stayed with me. The 850R was priced at around RM280,000 back then, but today, for those of us who remember its motorsport legacy, it remains an aspirational classic.
Now, let me share a few personal reasons why I chose the 850. Every owner has their own reasons, and these are mine:
Power-to-Price Ratio
Not to be confused with power-to-weight ratio! For under RM20,000 (for a car in moderate condition), you get a car with around 240bhp.
It’s rare to find a vehicle at this price with that kind of horsepower, so I use the term “power-to-price ratio.” Even with an automatic gearbox, the car has excellent mid-range performance and acceleration, especially with a torque curve that kicks in at the lower RPMs. Other reviewers often highlight this torque strength too, as it adds a sporty, energetic feel when the car picks up speed.
Handling
The handling of the Volvo 850 is a standout feature. Despite its age, the 850 has a front-wheel-drive setup that’s tuned for a surprisingly balanced ride. Reviews in the 1990s highlighted that the 850’s cornering capabilities were among the best for a front-wheel-drive car of that time.
The car maintains control even in sharp turns and holds the road with confidence. Some magazines noted that the 850’s handling in everyday driving and on the track was impressive, with precise steering that responds to even slight adjustments.
For me, the handling is one of the main reasons I love driving this car. It allows me to feel connected to the road in a way that many newer models fail to deliver.
Torque and Power Delivery
The 850’s turbocharged engine provides a unique blend of torque and power, especially in the mid-range.
The car effortlessly maintains its power even when accelerating onto highways or overtaking at higher speeds. The torque curve kicks in early, delivering strong performance from a low RPM, making it a joy to drive even at slower speeds.
For those who know their cars, the 850’s torque is legendary—an aspect often praised by car enthusiasts and reviewers alike for its “real-world” usability, whether in city driving or on open roads.
Seat Comfort and Ergonomics
I can’t speak highly enough of the original Alcantara seats. Since I often drive long distances, I genuinely appreciate the comfort these seats offer.
Volvo has a reputation for designing seats that prioritize ergonomic support, and the 850 is no exception. Several magazines have commended Volvo’s seats for providing comfort even on long journeys, with particular attention to the lumbar support and overall contour.
These seats are built with orthopedic research in mind, ensuring that drivers and passengers feel comfortable even after hours on the road.
For me, the seats alone are a reason to choose the 850—they prevent back pain, soreness, and discomfort during extended trips.
Interior Comfort and Build Quality
Volvo didn’t cut corners on the interior of the 850. The materials feel solid and substantial, giving you the sense that the car is built to last.
The interior is thoughtfully laid out, with controls that are intuitive and a dashboard that, while simple, is functional. I’ve owned other cars that felt flimsy or poorly put together, but the 850 has held up remarkably well over time.
Many reviewers from the 1990s and early 2000s noted that the 850’s build quality was one of its strengths, and I can confirm that even after years of use, the interior remains comfortable and inviting.
If you’re interested in Volvo, I encourage you to take the opinions of actual owners to heart.
This car may not be about looks, but in terms of driving mechanics, comfort, and reliability, it’s a remarkable vehicle with a lot to offer.
With a price under RM20,000 (in moderate condition), the 850 offers a mix of performance, handling, and comfort that’s hard to beat. Of course, if you want a top-condition model, it can go well above RM50,000.
In the end, the Volvo 850 is more than just a car—it’s an experience that combines handling, torque, power, and exceptional comfort in a way that few cars can. And that’s the story of my “old Volvo.”
(Picture of my car included.)
