I have an opportunity to pick up and 1996 850 that I plan to use for parts for the 1997 850R. They are both red so I won't need to paint anything. I know there are differences in the two vehicles. For instance, I know, unfortunately, the 96 has 16 inch rims instead of the impossible to find 17 - 7 rims.

What about other parts both outside and mechanical. Specifically the Turbo, will the turbo of the 96 fit the 97? Anything else you can think of to tell me would be great. I assumed I would get my best information from ya'll. Thanks for your help.

 

Is the 96 an 850 Turbo? If so they would be mostly the same minus badging / wheels and the ECU programming/turbocharger vs the 97R. The 96s are the first year the 850s went to OBD2 so that's good - and I believe the 96 Ts have the 15G turbo vs the R's 16T. The 97R also got a better stereo amp :-)

 

Yes the 96 does have a turbo and I believe that it is what I remember reading that the 96 had a 15G, but that would be better than the one that doesn't work. So, I think it's a good thing

 

97 turbo 850 and 96 turbo 850 uses the same exact engine and turbo. R and non-R turbo makes no difference to the engine/turbo hardware.

 

850R Manual has a 16T turbo and M59 Gearbox, if the 850R is an auto, then everything is the same.

 

Since OP is in Maryland USA, I listed US spec cars. US never got 850 with manual transmission and turbo.

 

that's a shame too... an 850R MT would be a nice catch - without having to make one on your own :-)

 

Thanks all. I appreciate your advice