1996 BMW 318 vs. 2010 Volvo V50
To start off, 2010 Volvo V50 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1996 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo V50 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1996 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Volvo V50 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 2010 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4521 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
