1958 BMW 503 vs. 1985 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1985 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 27 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 395 kg more than 1958 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Chevrolet Astro 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, 1985 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1985 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 503 | Astro |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
