1958 BMW 503 vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 43 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
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, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 503 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
