1956 BMW 503 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 48 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, 1956 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (250 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 503 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 503 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |