1956 BMW 503 vs. 2000 Volvo S40
To start off, 2000 Volvo S40 is newer by 44 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (190 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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, 2000 Volvo S40 (298 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 2000 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2000 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2000 |
| 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 | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 58 L |
