1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 BMW 3.3. (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1976 BMW 3.3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2007 Volvo V50.
Because 2007 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 BMW 3.3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 BMW 3.3. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 BMW 3.3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 3.3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 62 L |
