1959 BMW 503 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 43 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 790 kg more than 1959 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 503 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 90 L |
