1956 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 53 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (280 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 641 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 2009 Saab 03-Sep is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (355 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503. 2009 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW 503 has manual transmission. 1956 BMW 503 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 503 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 61 L |
