Volvo 850 LS 2.5 TDI (140 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.2 / 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)

LS Overview:

Volvo 850 (LS). With 290 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1457 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.9 s). The top speed reaches 200 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Volvo 850 generation predates comprehensive Euro NCAP testing. While not officially rated, Volvo maintained a strong reputation for safety during this era, incorporating robust chassis design and pioneering features like SIPS (Side Impact Protection System).

2.5 TDI (140 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Excellent torque delivery makes for effortless cruising and good in-gear acceleration, especially on highways.

Fuel Economy

Likely the most fuel-efficient option in the lineup, ideal for high-mileage drivers and long-distance journeys.

Best Use Case: Long-distance commuters, high-mileage drivers, and those prioritizing fuel economy and strong low-end torque.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional safety features for its era (SIPS)
  • • Robust and reliable inline five-cylinder engines
  • • Spacious and comfortable interior with excellent seats
  • • Strong performance variants (T5, T5-R) offer engaging driving
  • • Practical sedan body style with good trunk space

Cons:

  • • Some engines can be thirsty, especially the turbo models
  • • Aging interior design and technology compared to modern cars
  • • Front-wheel-drive platform limits ultimate handling dynamics for some enthusiasts
  • • Maintenance can be costly if specific Volvo parts are required
  • • Automatic transmissions can feel dated and less responsive

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Combi (LW): 1994 - 1997).

General:
Brand:Volvo
Model:850
Generation:LS
Modification (Engine):2.5 TDI (140 Hp)
Start of production:1995
End of production:1997
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:140 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:56.9 Hp/l [49mm less]
Torque:290 Nm @ 1900 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:D5252T More details about the engine D5252T
Engine displacement:2461
Number of cylinders:5
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine oil capacity:6 l
Coolant:12 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:81 mm
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm
Compression ratio:20.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.9 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.9 sec
Maximum speed:200 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10.4 kg/Hp, 96.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5 kg/Nm, 199 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.4 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1457
Max. weight:1960
Max load:503
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:445 l
Fuel tank capacity:73 l
Size:
Length:4660 mm [49mm less]
Width:1761 mm [Same width.]
Height:1415 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2665 mm [5mm less]
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

What’s the best feature of the Volvo 850? Tell us in the comments!