1956 BMW 503 vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS is newer by 55 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 318 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, 2011 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2011 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503. 2011 Cadillac DTS 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. 2011 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 503 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2936 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 68 L |
