1959 BMW 503 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 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 29 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (110 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 446 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volvo 460, 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, 1959 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1959 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 503 | 460 |
Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1054 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |