2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 730 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo V50. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2011 Volvo XC90 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. 2011 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | V50 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.6 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
