1957 BMW 503 vs. 1979 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1979 GMC Suburban is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 503 would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1979 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1979 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 GMC Suburban weights approximately 732 kg more than 1957 BMW 503.
Because 1979 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 GMC Suburban 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, 1979 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 503 | 1979 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 503 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3300 mm |
