Volvo 850 T-5R
The 'Flying Brick' that redefined Volvo and dominated the BTCC.
- Power
- 240 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.7 s
- Top speed
- 152 mph
- Est. value
- $12k–$45k
About the Volvo 850 T-5R
Developed in collaboration with Porsche, the 850 T-5R was a radical departure for Volvo, transforming their image from safe and sensible to high-performance cool. It featured a 2.3-litre five-cylinder engine with a Bosch ECU that provided a temporary overboost to 240 hp, paired with a distinctive aerodynamic body kit and 17-inch 'Titan' wheels. The Estate version gained legendary status through its participation in the British Touring Car Championship, where it famously raced in wagon form. Collectors prize the limited-run Cream Yellow examples, though the car was also available in Stone Black and Dark Olive Pearl.
Volvo 850 T-5R specs
The Volvo 850 T-5R produces 240 bhp (179 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h).
| Make | Volvo |
|---|---|
| Model | 850 T-5R |
| Trim | 850 T-5R Estate |
| Years | 1994–1995 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Estate |
| Country | Sweden |
| Production | About 6,964 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 | 240 bhp (179 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.7 s |
| Top speed | 152 mph (245 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,451 kg (3,199 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 165 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 T-5R worth?
A typical Volvo 850 T-5R is estimated to be worth $12,000 – $45,000 (about £8,900 – £34,000).
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 T-5R rarity in CarSpot
The Volvo 850 T-5R 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 T-5R fun facts
- The T-5R was the first production car to feature side-impact airbags (SIPS) as standard equipment.
- Volvo chose to race the Estate in the 1994 BTCC because its long roof provided better aerodynamic downforce than the saloon.
- The signature Cream Yellow paint was so prone to fading that it was cheekily marketed as 'Faded Yellow' in the Australian market.
