2008 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Volvo V50. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo V50.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo V50 (240 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 523 | V50 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |