1959 BMW 503 vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 49 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 60 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 2008 Cadillac CTS 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (263 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2008 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 503 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 74.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 68 L |
