Volvo 850 Combi (LW) 2.5 10V (144 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 206 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1423 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.5 s). The top speed reaches 200 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.

2.5 10V (144 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

A minor power bump over the 140 Hp version, offering slightly improved responsiveness while maintaining its reliable character.

Fuel Economy

Similar to the 140 Hp variant, offering moderate and predictable fuel consumption for everyday use.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving, daily commuting, and drivers seeking a balance of power and economy without turbo complexity.

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): 1993 - 1997).

General:
Brand:Volvo
Model:850
Generation:Combi (LW)
Modification (Engine):2.5 10V (144 Hp)
Start of production:1994
End of production:1997
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:144 Hp @ 5400 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:59.1 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:206 Nm @ 3600 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:B5252S More details about the engine B5252S
Engine displacement:2435
Number of cylinders:5
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:5.3 l
Coolant:7.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:83 mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.8 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.5 sec
Maximum speed:200 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.9 kg/Hp, 101.2 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6.9 kg/Nm, 144.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:10 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1423
Max. weight:1970
Max load:547
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1580 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:420 l
Fuel tank capacity:73 l
Size:
Length:4709 mm [Same length.]
Width:1761 mm [Same width.]
Height:1415 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2670 mm [Same wheelbase.]
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 size185/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Volvo 850!