1996 BMW 523 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 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 47 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 523. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 523 | V50 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2524 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |