BMW 328 vs. Volvo V50 Review

Cost
When it comes to MSRP, the V50 costs substantially less than the BMW 3 Series.

Utility
There's no clear winner between the V50 and the BMW 3 Series in terms of transporting cargo. The 3 Series and the Volvo can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the V50 offers a bit more head room than the 3 Series, there frankly isn't much of a difference. While the rear of the BMW offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Volvo V50, there really isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The BMW 3 Series is a tad heavier than the Volvo V50. The Volvo's tank is about the same size as the BMW 3 Series's, though the BMW 3 Series's is slightly more capacious. The V50 and the BMW 3 Series compete for the same parking spaces.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Volvo V50 is doubtless nimbler than the BMW 3 Series, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; on the flip side, note that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Volvo V50's engine is significantly smaller than the BMW 3 Series's. Keep in mind that smaller engines can be stressed more; however, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage. Torque equals pickup, and the Volvo V50 will have picked up and gone by the time the 3 Series finally gets moving.

Overview
The Volvo V50 and the BMW 3 Series have the same basic after-sale protection.