Volvo 850 R
The flying brick that proved safety and speed could coexist in a cloud of tyre smoke.
- Power
- 250 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.7 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$27k
About the Volvo 850 R
The Volvo 850 R was the full-production successor to the limited T-5R, cementing Volvo's new-found reputation for performance. While the automatic version was capped at 240 hp, the manual variant (not sold in North America) featured a larger turbocharger and a limited-slip differential to manage its 250 hp output. It remains a cult icon for its 'flying brick' aerodynamics and its association with the TWR-run 850s that famously competed in the British Touring Car Championship. Collectors prize the R for its unique 'Volans' wheels, Alcantara-trimmed interior, and the distinctive warble of its transverse five-cylinder engine.
Volvo 850 R specs
The Volvo 850 R produces 250 bhp (186 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | 850 R |
| Trim | 2.3 T5 |
| Years | 1996–1997 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Sweden |
| Production | About 6,000 built |
| Original price | About $36,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.3-litre turbocharged inline-5 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,319 cc (2.3 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 250 bhp (186 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.7 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,490 kg (3,285 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 168 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volvo 850 R worth?
A typical Volvo 850 R is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $27,000 (about £6,700 – £20,000).
Its original price when new was about $36,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volvo 850 R rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo 850 R is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volvo 850 R fun facts
- The manual 850 R was the first front-wheel drive Volvo to be factory-fitted with a Torsen limited-slip differential to help manage its significant torque.
- While the T-5R was famous for 'Cream Yellow', the 850 R introduced 'Bright Red' and 'Dark Grey Pearl' as its signature performance colours.
- The 850 series was the result of 'Project Galaxy', one of the largest industrial investments in Swedish history, which transitioned Volvo to front-wheel drive.