1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
