1958 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 51 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 503 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 503 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
