Volvo 850
Volvo
Volvo 850: The Front-Drive Performance Breakthrough
The 850 was a landmark Volvo that introduced front-wheel drive and five-cylinder power, plus the wild T-5R racing wagon.
Launched in 1991, the 850 marked a major shift for Volvo, moving to front-wheel drive and transverse five-cylinder engines while retaining the brand's safety focus. It modernized Volvo's image and introduced innovations like side-impact protection.
The 850 gained fame through motorsport, with Volvo memorably racing the boxy 850 wagon in the British Touring Car Championship. The turbocharged 850 T-5R and R models became cult performance icons, proving a Volvo could be genuinely fast.
The 850 is remembered as the car that brought performance credibility to Volvo while keeping its safety and practicality, paving the way for later models.