2008 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (218 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 314 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 X3 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 X3. 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.6 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 57 L |
