1988 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2007 Volvo V50. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2007 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW M3 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | V50 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1464 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |