2008 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo V50. 2005 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. 2005 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 10 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 | 1570 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
