2008 Volvo V50 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2012 BMW 120.
Because 2012 BMW 120 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 2012 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 120. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo V50 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | V50 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.4 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1598 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 51 L |
