1956 BMW 503 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 56 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 37 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 503 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 503 | Passat |
Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1537 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |