1998 BMW 317 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. 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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 317 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
