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 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2000 BMW Z3. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 BMW Z3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW Z3. (237 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 | 2488 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 58 L |
