1996 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1996 BMW 525.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. 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, 1996 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 525 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
