1957 BMW 503 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 48 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1957 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 503 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50.
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, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 503 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 57 L |
