1996 BMW 840 vs. 2006 Volvo V50

To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 840. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 840 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 840 weights approximately 261 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 840 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 840. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 840 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 840 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 840 2006 Volvo V50
Make BMW Volvo
Model 840 V50
Year Released 1996 2006
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3982 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 282 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 5100 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 93.2 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1740 kg 1479 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L