1990 BMW 316 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
