Well the 850 comes in a few trim levels. Assuming your from north america here is basicly what is available both in sedan or wagon form.
850 GLE - (Canada only) base model. 2.4L 5 cyl. 10 valve motor with 142hp. Cloth interior, 15" steel wheels. Winter package standard (all canadian 850s are).
850 GLT - usually leather with 15" or 16" aluminum wheels or base steel wheels. 2.4L 5 cyl. 20 valve motor with 168hp.
850 T-5 - Leather interior, 15" or 16" aluminum wheels. 2.3L 5 cyl. 20 valve with 222hp.
850R (earlier) or 850 T-5R - Leather and alcantra interior. Unique "R" front spoiler and rear spoiler (rear optional with other models). 17" aluminum rims and sport suspension. 237hp stock, I hear 5-speed manual cars come with around 240-250hp (ECU).
The "R" is the cats meow. It is the most desirable and best performer although the normal T-5 is close in ear to ear grinning when driving!
Keep in mind if you residing in the US it isn't really worth looking for a 5 speed unless you have time. Any that are there migrated from Canada with our geese
and may be a grey area legally (so I hear). Manuals came in the GLT, T-5s & R models. My roomate actually has a dark green '94 T-5 with a 5 speed, just bought it a little while ago, so I know they are nice
Prices vary from year, condition and milage. I'm not aware of any bad years, all will treat you well if services properly. In canadian dollars I remember in 1996 prices started at $32,000 for the GLE to $55,000 for the mighty R. It seems to me a used 850 is a good deal, prices dropped here with the release of the new platforms - which is a great thing if your looking to buy! Good luck!
