2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 10 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 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 2013 BMW M3 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 2013 BMW M3. 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V50 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2524 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1418 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.6 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.5 L/100km | 15.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
