1956 BMW 503 vs. 2007 Volvo S60
To start off, 2007 Volvo S60 is newer by 51 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, 2007 Volvo S60 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S60 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1956 BMW 503. 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, 2007 Volvo S60, 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, 2007 Volvo S60 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2007 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| 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 | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
