2004 Volvo V50 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50.
Because 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo V50 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V50 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 53 L |
