1996 BMW 725 vs. 2011 Volvo V50
To start off, 2011 Volvo V50 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 187 kg more than 2011 Volvo V50.
Because 1996 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 725. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 725. 2011 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 725 | 2011 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 725 | V50 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1598 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4521 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1499 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2639 mm |