2003 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 394 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50.
Because 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V50. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V50. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 520 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1306 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
