1958 BMW 503 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 33 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 503 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
