2006 BMW 118 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 BMW 118 is newer by 3 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 118 weights approximately 437 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 2006 BMW 118 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 118. 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 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 118 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 118 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
