2009 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 126 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
