1959 BMW 503 vs. 2003 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 44 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 61 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 342 kg more than 2003 Fiat Idea. 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, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1959 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2003 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 503 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 47 L |
