1998 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 316 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
