1984 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 BMW 323 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 348 kg more than 1984 BMW 323.
Because 1984 BMW 323 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 1984 BMW 323. 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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
