1998 BMW 325 vs. 2010 Volvo V50

To start off, 2010 Volvo V50 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo V50 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2010 Volvo V50 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 325 2010 Volvo V50
Make BMW Volvo
Model 325 V50
Year Released 1998 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2498 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 227 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 1900 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1434 kg 1598 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4521 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 57 L