1959 BMW 503 vs. 1998 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1998 Ford Taurus is newer by 39 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster 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, 1998 Ford Taurus, 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 1998 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 503 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
