Volvo 850 Combi (LW) 2.3 T5 (225 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety 2.5 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Volvo 850:

The Volvo 850 is a compact executive car that was produced by the Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars from 1991 until 1997. Designed by Jan Wilsgaard, the car was introduced in a saloon body style; an estate style was introduced in 1993.
The Volvo 850 was shown for the first time in June 1991, and the car marked a departure for Volvo, featuring multiple unprecedented features for the company; these included a transverse 5-cylinder engine driving the front wheels, a Delta-link rear axle, a side impact protection system, and a self-adjusting front seat belt mechanism....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Combi (LW) Overview:

Volvo 850 (Combi (LW)). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1451 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.4 s). The top speed reaches 240 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.3 T5 (225 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

A true performance engine, offering strong acceleration and excellent mid-range torque. Transforms the 850 into a quick and engaging car.

Fuel Economy

Acceptable fuel economy for a turbocharged engine of this power, but it will consume more fuel when driven enthusiastically.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, highway cruising, and those seeking a blend of practicality and performance.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional comfort and supportive seats, ideal for long journeys.
  • • Robust build quality and renowned Volvo safety (for its era).
  • • Spacious and practical interior with a large cargo area.
  • • Wide range of engines, from economical diesels to high-performance turbos.
  • • Distinctive, timeless design and strong community support.

Cons:

  • • Fuel economy can be high on some petrol variants, especially T5/T5-R.
  • • Older models may suffer from electrical gremlins or aging plastic components.
  • • Automatic transmissions can be slow and less refined than modern units.
  • • Steering feel is somewhat numb, not as engaging as some rivals.
  • • Parts for specific trims (e.g., T5-R) can be harder to source and more expensive.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Combi (LW): 1992 - 1996).

General:
Brand:Volvo
Model:850
Generation:Combi (LW)
Modification (Engine):2.3 T5 (225 Hp)
Start of production:1993
End of production:1997
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:225 Hp @ 5280 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:97 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:300 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:B5234T More details about the engine B5234T
Engine displacement:2319
Number of cylinders:5
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.3 l
Coolant:7 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:81 mm mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:9.4 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.4 sec
Maximum speed:240 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.4 kg/Hp, 155.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.8 kg/Nm, 206.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1451
Max. weight:1970
Max load:519
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1580 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:420 l
Fuel tank capacity:73 l
Size:
Length:4709 mm mm
Width:1761 mm mm
Height:1415 mm mm
Wheelbase:2670 mm mm
Front track:1520 mm
Rear (Back) track:1470 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/50 R16
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Behind the wheel of the Volvo 850. How does it handle on the road?