1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 34 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 135 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 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2005 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 3 | V50 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |