1973 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 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 1973 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
