2009 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (207 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 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 M3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | V50 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.6 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1438 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |