2001 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 39 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 318 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
