1959 BMW 503 vs. 2006 Volvo V70
To start off, 2006 Volvo V70 is newer by 47 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 11 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V70. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V70 weights approximately 146 kg more 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, 2006 Volvo V70, 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, 2006 Volvo V70 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2006 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 503 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| 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 | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |
