1958 BMW 503 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Quantum is newer by 30 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 29 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Quantum. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Quantum. 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, 1988 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1958 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Quantum. (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Quantum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1988 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 503 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
