1994 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 320 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M3 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
