2006 Volvo V50 vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,345 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V50 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V50 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2345 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| 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 Tank Capacity | 62 L | 63 L |
