1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,318 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 189 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
