2004 BMW 116 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 BMW 116 is newer by 1 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 BMW 116. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 116. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 418 kg more than 2004 BMW 116. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 116 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 2004 BMW 116. 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 116. (153 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 116.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 116 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 116 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
