1957 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 52 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1957 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 503 weights approximately 276 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 503 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 503 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
