2009 BMW 120 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 BMW 120 is newer by 4 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 BMW 120. (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 36 kg more than 2009 BMW 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 120. 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 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 120. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 120 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 57 L |
