1958 BMW 503 vs. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1960 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 503 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 42 L |
