1956 BMW 503 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 282 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 1956 BMW 503 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 1956 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, 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, 1956 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 503 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 503 | S40 |
Year Released | 1956 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1218 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |