1988 BMW 524 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 524 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
