2008 BMW 323 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 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 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 6 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. 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 (320 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1997 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
