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Overview Of The Volvo 850

Introduced in 1992, the Volvo 850 was a watershed moment for the Swedish automaker. It was the first Volvo to be built on the company's new modular platform, and it represented a significant departure from the boxy designs of Volvos past. The 850 was available in sedan and wagon body styles, and it was offered with a variety of engine options, including a turbocharged 5-cylinder that produced 225 horsepower.

Design

The Volvo 850 was designed by a team led by Peter Horbury. Horbury drew inspiration from the classic Volvo P1800 sports car, but he also incorporated modern design elements such as a sleek, aerodynamic shape and flush-mounted headlights. The result was a car that was both stylish and functional.

The 850 was also one of the first Volvos to feature a "floating" grille. This design element became a signature feature of Volvo cars, and it is still used on many models today.

Engineering

The Volvo 850 was built on the company's new modular platform. This platform was designed to be flexible and adaptable, and it allowed Volvo to quickly and easily develop new models. The 850 was the first Volvo to be built on this platform, and it set the stage for a new generation of Volvo cars.

The 850 was also one of the first Volvos to feature a transversely mounted engine. This design allowed for a more compact engine compartment, which in turn allowed for more interior space. The 850 was also available with all-wheel drive, which gave it improved traction in slippery conditions.

Safety

Safety has always been a top priority for Volvo, and the 850 was no exception. The 850 was one of the first cars to be equipped with side airbags, and it also featured a number of other safety features, including anti-lock brakes and traction control.

The 850 was also one of the first cars to be tested by the Euro NCAP safety organization. The 850 received a four-star rating from Euro NCAP, which was the highest rating that had been awarded to a car at that time.

Impact

The Volvo 850 was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its stylish design, its advanced engineering, and its impressive safety features. The 850 helped to redefine Volvo's image, and it paved the way for a new generation of Volvo cars.

The 850 remained in production until 1998, and it was replaced by the Volvo S80.