2005 Volvo V50 vs. 2006 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,519 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2006 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 318 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 2006 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo V50 | 2006 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V50 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2519 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1399 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
