2002 BMW 332 vs. 2006 Volvo V50

To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 332 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 332 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 BMW 332 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 2002 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 BMW 332 (330 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo V50. 2006 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 332 2006 Volvo V50
Make BMW Volvo
Model 332 V50
Year Released 2002 2006
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 2435 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 338 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.1 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 62 L