1959 BMW 503 vs. 2005 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2005 Volvo XC70 is newer by 46 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 185 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 2005 Volvo XC70 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 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, 2005 Volvo XC70 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2005 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
