1995 BMW Z3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1995 BMW Z3. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW Z3. (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 62 L |
