1999 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 27 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. 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 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 1999 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
