2000 BMW Z3 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (133 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.
Because 2000 BMW Z3 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW Z3. 2000 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |
