1971 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 36 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, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2007 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
