1958 BMW 503 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 102 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
