2003 Volvo V50 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (191 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (267 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406. 1997 Peugeot 406 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Volvo | Peugeot |
| Model | V50 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
