1999 BMW 330 vs. 2008 Volvo V50

To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 330 weights approximately 238 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1999 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V50. (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V50.

Compare all specifications:

1999 BMW 330 2008 Volvo V50
Make BMW Volvo
Model 330 V50
Year Released 1999 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2983 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 185 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 390 Nm 232 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 90 mm
Top Speed 225 km/hour 208 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 1462 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption 6.3 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 11.3 L/100km 11.8 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.1 L/100km 11 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L