2001 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 325 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2001 BMW 325.
Because 2001 BMW 325 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 2001 BMW 325. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW 325 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 325 | V50 |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 184 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |