2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (328 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 124 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 1500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2005 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
