1957 BMW 503 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 46 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1957 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 90 kg more than 1957 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 503 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 503 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
