1958 BMW 503 vs. 2006 BMW X3
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 48 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, 2006 BMW X3 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 325 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 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW X3 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 2006 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 503 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 67 L |
