1999 BMW 323 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 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 19 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1999 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 1999 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 1999 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 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 323 | V50 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 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 |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |