1989 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 518 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
