1998 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 8 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. 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 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 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 323 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 323 | V50 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |