Volvo 850 T5-R (1994-96)
The **Volvo 850 T5-R**, produced from **1994 to 1996**, was a **high-performance, limited-edition variant** of the **850 Series**, designed to push Volvo’s reputation beyond safety and into the realm of **sporty driving dynamics**.
Powered by a **turbocharged 2.3L inline-five engine**, it delivered **237 horsepower** (240 PS) and **300 Nm of torque**, allowing it to accelerate from **0-100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds**. The **T5-R** was available in **sedan and estate** versions, with distinctive **yellow, black, and green paint options**, **aggressive body styling**, and **17-inch Titan alloy wheels** Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/volvo/850-t5r/).
Its success in **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) racing**, particularly with the **850 Estate**, cemented its status as a **cult classic**. Today, the **T5-R** remains a **highly sought-after collector’s car**, admired for its **blend of performance, practicality, and Volvo’s signature durability**.
*****
Popularity
The Volvo 850 T5-R, produced between 1994 and 1996, achieved cult status rather than mass-market global popularity—but its impact was outsized for a limited-edition performance model.
🌍 Global Reach & Appeal:
Europe: Strong enthusiast following in the UK, Germany, and Sweden, especially due to its success in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)
North America: Imported in small numbers; appreciated for its sleeper performance and practicality
Australia & Japan: Limited availability, but highly prized among collectors
🚗 Why It Stood Out:
Performance pedigree: Turbocharged 2.3L inline-five producing 240 PS, tuned by Porsche Consulting
Distinctive styling: Offered in bold colours like Cream Yellow, with 17-inch Titan alloys and aggressive bodywork
Racing heritage: The 850 Estate’s BTCC debut in 1994 made it an icon, despite not being the fastest on the grid
Limited production: Only 200 units were officially imported to the UK, adding to its rarity and desirability
📈 Legacy:
Paved the way for the 850 R and later V70 R models
Today, it’s considered a modern classic, with rising values and strong demand among enthusiasts
So while it wasn’t a high-volume seller globally, the T5-R carved out a niche as a high-performance Volvo with genuine motorsport DNA.
*****
Overview: The Volvo 850 T-5 was a groundbreaking model for Volvo, marking a major shift in the brand’s engineering and performance capabilities. Here’s why it was significant:
Key Innovations
First Front-Wheel-Drive Volvo with a Five-Cylinder Engine – The 850 series introduced a transverse-mounted five-cylinder engine, a major departure from Volvo’s traditional rear-wheel-drive layout.
Advanced Safety Features– It debuted Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and a self-adjusting seatbelt mechanism, reinforcing Volvo’s reputation for safety.
Motorsport Success** – The 850 Estate competed in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) in 1994, making headlines as one of the first estate cars in professional racing.
Performance-Oriented T-5 & T-5R Variants – The T-5** featured a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, producing 230 bhp, while the T-5R** pushed that to 250 bhp, making it one of Volvo’s fastest cars at the time Review | Honest John](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/volvo/850-t5r/).
Distinctive Styling & Cult Following – The T-5R, especially in its iconic yellow paint, became a cult classic, proving that Volvo could blend performance with practicality.
The Volvo 850 T-5 helped redefine Volvo’s image, moving beyond its traditional focus on safety and reliability to embrace performance and motorsport heritage.
*****
COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Volvo 850 T5-R is a robust and well-engineered car, but like any classic performance vehicle, it has some common faults that owners should be aware of:
Engine & Mechanical Issues
- **PCV System Blockages** – Can lead to excessive crankcase pressure and oil leaks.
- **Turbocharger Wear** – High mileage units may suffer from turbo failure or boost leaks.
- **Engine Mount Failures** – The upper engine mount is prone to deterioration, causing vibrations.
- **Head Gasket Issues** – More common in turbocharged models, especially at high mileage.
Transmission & Drivetrain
- **Automatic Transmission Wear** – The **4-speed auto** can develop shifting issues if not maintained.
- **Manual Gearbox Synchro Wear** – Hard shifting in older manual models.
- **CV Joint & Driveshaft Wear** – Can cause clicking noises during turns.
Electrical & Interior Problems
- **ABS Module Failure** – A common fault leading to ABS warning lights.
- **Fuel Door Hinge Issues** – Weak hinges can break over time.
- **Door Check Strap Failure** – Clicking noises when opening doors indicate worn check straps.
Suspension & Brakes
- **Front Control Arm Bushings** – Worn bushings cause vague steering feel.
- **Brake Master Cylinder Issues** – Can lead to spongy brake pedal feel.
- **Rear Shock Absorber Wear** – Common in high-mileage cars.
Despite these issues, the 850 T5-R remains a durable and rewarding classic, especially when properly maintained.
*****
Generations/Trim Levels
The Volvo 850 T5-R was part of the **850 series**, which had several generations and trim levels. Here’s a breakdown:
Generations
1. **Volvo 850 (1991–1997)** – The original model, introducing **front-wheel drive and a five-cylinder engine**.
2. **Volvo 850 T5 (1993–1997)** – A **turbocharged version**, offering **225 bhp**.
3. **Volvo 850 T5-R (1994–1995)** – A **limited-edition high-performance model**, with **240 bhp**, aggressive styling, and unique colors.
4. **Volvo 850 R (1996–1997)** – An evolution of the T5-R, featuring **250 bhp**, improved suspension, and sportier styling.
5. **Volvo 850 AWD (1996–1997)** – The **all-wheel-drive variant**, offering better traction and handling.
6. **Volvo 850 TDI (1996–1997)** – A **diesel-powered version**, featuring a **2.5L inline-five turbo diesel engine**.
Trim Levels
- **850 GLT** – Mid-range trim with **luxury features**.
- **850 T5** – Turbocharged performance model.
- **850 T5-R** – Limited-edition high-performance variant.
- **850 R** – Sportier version of the T5-R.
- **850 AWD** – All-wheel-drive model.
- **850 TDI** – Diesel-powered version.
*****
Production Total: The **Volvo 850 T5-R** was a limited-production high-performance variant of the 850 series, and only 6,964 units were produced worldwide.
Production Breakdown by Color
- **Yellow:** **2,537 units**
- **Black:** **2,516 units**
- **Dark Olive Pearl:** **1,911 units**
- **White:** **2 pre-production units**
- **Aubergine:** **2 pre-production units**
- **Grey:** **2 special-order units for the Arabian market**
This makes the **yellow T5-R** the most common, while the **white, aubergine, and grey versions** are extremely rare.
*****
Price New: The Volvo 850 T5-R was a high-performance, limited-edition model introduced in 1994, and its new price in the UK was approximately **£25,000–£30,000**, depending on the specification and optional extras.
This made it one of the most expensive Volvo models at the time, but its **turbocharged five-cylinder engine, aggressive styling, and rarity** have helped it become a sought-after classic today.
*****
Engine/s Performance
The Volvo 850 T5-R (1994–1996) was powered by a turbocharged 2.3L inline-five engine, delivering impressive performance for its time. Here are its key specifications:
Engine Details
- **Engine Code:** **B5234T5**
- **Displacement:** **2.3L (2319 cc)**
- **Configuration:** **Inline 5-cylinder**
- **Aspiration:** **Turbocharged with intercooler**
- **Fuel System:** **Bosch Motronic 4.3 fuel injection**
- **Compression Ratio:** **8.5:1**
- **Maximum Power Output:** **240 PS (237 bhp / 177 kW) @ 5300 rpm**
- **Maximum Torque:** **330 Nm (243 lb-ft) @ 2100–5280 rpm**
- **Drive Type:** **Front-wheel drive (FWD)**
- **Transmission:** **5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic**
Performance Figures
0–100 km/h (0–62 mph):** **6.9 seconds**
Top Speed: **250 km/h (155 mph)**
This engine was a defining feature of the **T5-R**, making it one of Volvo’s most exciting performance models.
*****
Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are 18 Volvo 850 T5-Rs still licensed on UK roads, with an additional 22 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This means a total of 40 units remain accounted for in the UK.
The T5-R is a rare and sought-after performance model, making it a prized collector’s item today.
*****
Rivals: In **1994**, the **Volvo 850 T5-R** faced competition from several high-performance sedans and coupes in the UK. Here’s a look at their approximate new prices at the time:
**Volvo 850 T5-R (1994)**
- **Price:** **£28,705–£48,400** (depending on trim and options) - stillmotoring.co.uk](https://www.stillmotoring.co.uk/items-1-5/volvo-850-t5-%281994-96%29)
Main Rivals & Their Prices in 1994
**BMW M3 E36 (1992–1999)**
- **Price:** **£32,000–£38,000**
**Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG (1993–1997)**
- **Price:** **£40,000–£45,000**
**Audi S4 (C4) (1991–1994)**
- **Price:** **£30,000–£35,000**
**Ford Sierra RS Cosworth (1986–1992)**
- **Price:** **£25,000–£30,000**
**Subaru Impreza WRX (1992–1996)**
- **Price:** **£22,000–£27,000**
The Volvo 850 T5-R was positioned as a high-performance sleeper sedan, competing with German sports sedans and rally-inspired models.
*****
In 1994, the Volvo 850 T5-R competed against several high-performance sedans and coupes in the UK. Here’s how its main rivals stacked up in terms of performance:
**Volvo 850 T5-R (1994–1995)**
- **Power:** **240 PS (237 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **330 Nm (243 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **6.9 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
Main Rivals & Their Performance
**BMW M3 E36 (1992–1999)**
- **Power:** **286 PS (282 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **320 Nm (236 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **5.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
**Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG (1993–1997)**
- **Power:** **280 PS (276 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **385 Nm (284 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **6.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
**Audi S4 (C4) (1991–1994)**
- **Power:** **230 PS (227 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **326 Nm (240 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **6.2 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **149 mph (240 km/h)**
**Ford Sierra RS Cosworth (1986–1992)**
- **Power:** **204 PS (201 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **276 Nm (204 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **6.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **149 mph (240 km/h)**
**Subaru Impreza WRX (1992–1996)**
- **Power:** **211 PS (208 bhp)**
- **Torque:** **290 Nm (214 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **5.9 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **143 mph (230 km/h)**
The Volvo 850 T5-R was a strong contender, offering **turbocharged power, aggressive styling, and practicality**, making it a unique alternative to its German and Japanese rivals.
*****
Designer/Dimensions
The Volvo 850 T5-R was designed by **Jan Wilsgaard**, Volvo’s legendary chief designer, who was responsible for many of the brand’s iconic models. The T5-R was based on the standard **850 series**, but with a more aggressive styling package and performance enhancements.
**Dimensions of the Volvo 850 T5-R**
- **Wheelbase:** **266 cm (104.72 inches)**
- **Length:** **466 cm (183.46 inches)**
- **Width:** **176 cm (69.29 inches)**
- **Height:** **140 cm (55.12 inches)**
- **Curb Weight:** **1410 kg (3109 lbs)**
- **Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient (Cx):** **0.32**
The T5-R was a bold step for Volvo, blending **performance, practicality, and safety** into a high-performance sleeper sedan.
*****
Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **Volvo 850 T5-R** spares in the **UK and Ireland**, here are some great sources:
**Specialist Volvo Parts Suppliers**
[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/volvo-850-carparts)** – Offers a wide range of **Volvo 850 parts**, including brakes, filters, suspension, and engine components.
[BreakerLink](https://www.breakerlink.com/cars/volvo/850/)** – A marketplace for **new and used Volvo 850 spares**, sourced from vetted breakers across the UK and Ireland.
[Nordicar](https://nordicar.com/en/i/Volvo-850-parts.html)** – Specializes in **Volvo 850 parts**, including restoration components and performance upgrades.
Local Volvo Enthusiast Resources
Volvo Owners Clubs** – Clubs like the **Volvo Owners Club UK** often have members selling rare parts.
*****
Specialists NI
If you're looking for specialist garage services for your **Volvo 850 T5-R** in **Northern Ireland**, here are some options:
Volvo Specialists in Northern Ireland
**Location:** 1 Boucher Way, Belfast BT12 6RE
**Services:** Official Volvo dealership offering **servicing, repairs, and parts**.
**Phone:** 028 9068 6000
[Beechill Garage](https://www.bing.com/search?q=Beechill%20Garage&filters=local_ypid%3a%22YN1029x15732578706808402548%22)**
**Location:** Unit 45 Edgar Industrial Estate, Comber Road, Belfast BT8 8AN
**Services:** General **car repairs, engine diagnostics, suspension work, and servicing**.
**Phone:** 028 9064 7007
**Location:** Unit 3A Trummery Industrial Park, Meadow Rd, Moira, Craigavon BT67 0HH
**Services:** **Performance tuning, ECU remapping, and aftermarket upgrades**.
**Phone:** 028 9252 8248
**[Approved Garages – Volvo Repair in Belfast](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/volvo/belfast/)**
Services: A network of **independent garages** offering **Volvo servicing and repairs**.
*****
Racing
The Volvo 850 T5-R itself did not compete in professional racing, but the **Volvo 850 series** was heavily involved in motorsport, particularly in the **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**.
**Volvo 850 in Racing**
- **BTCC (1994–1996)** – Volvo entered the **850 Estate** in the 1994 BTCC season, making headlines as one of the first estate cars in professional racing.
- **BTCC (1995–1996)** – Volvo switched to the **850 Saloon**, which was more aerodynamically efficient, competing under **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR)**.
- **Endurance Racing (1995–1997)** – The **850 T5** was used in **Group A endurance racing**, including the **Nürburgring 24 Hours**.
While the **T5-R** was not a homologation model for racing, its **performance upgrades and turbocharged engine** were inspired by Volvo’s motorsport efforts.
*****
Valuation
In 2025, the value of a Volvo 850 T5-R in the UK varies based on **condition, rarity, and demand**. Here’s a general price range based on recent market data:
**Lowest recorded sale:** Around **£5,800** for models in fair condition.
**Average market value:** Approximately **£11,871** for well-maintained examples.
**Highest recorded sale:** Up to **£19,288** for rare or pristine-condition models.
If you're looking to buy or sell one, checking **The Classic Valuer** or **Car and Classic** might provide more precise valuations.
*****
Clubs
If you're looking for **Volvo 850 T5-R owners clubs** in **Northern Ireland**, here are some great options:
Volvo Owners Clubs & Communities
[Volvo Owners Club UK](https://www.volvoclub.org.uk/)** – A well-established club covering all Volvo models, including the **850 T5-R**. They offer **events, forums, and technical support**.
[Volvo Forums UK](https://www.volvoforums.org.uk/forum/technical-topics/-850-s70-v70-96-99-c70-97-05-general/143235-850-t-5r-insurance-in-northern-ireland-rip-off?t=156315%29**)** – A great place to connect with **850 T5-R owners**, discuss maintenance, and find parts.
*****