2008 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 2004 Volvo V50. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2008 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo V50. (280 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo V50. 2004 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1467 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
