1987 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1987 BMW 320. (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 443 kg more than 1987 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 BMW 320. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 320 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 57 L |
