1996 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V50 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 316 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 1996 BMW 316. 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316. 2007 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 316 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:
| 1996 BMW 316 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
