1959 BMW 503 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 45 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
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, 2004 Volvo S40, 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 68 L |
