1959 BMW 503 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 503 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |