1959 BMW 503 vs. 2007 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2007 Opel Vectra is newer by 48 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Vectra weights approximately 85 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 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, 2007 Opel Vectra, 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, 2007 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2007 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 503 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
