1958 BMW 503 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 39 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 500 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 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 503 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 503 | V |
Year Released | 1958 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2295 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |