1959 BMW 503 vs. 1989 Chevrolet APV
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet APV is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 BMW 503 (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Chevrolet APV. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1989 Chevrolet APV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet APV weights approximately 90 kg more than 1959 BMW 503.
Because 1959 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 1959 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet APV, 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, 1989 Chevrolet APV (237 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet APV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 1989 Chevrolet APV | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 503 | APV |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
