1958 BMW 503 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile SS 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503.
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 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 1997 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 503 | SS |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
