1959 BMW 503 vs. 2008 Citroen C5
To start off, 2008 Citroen C5 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 Citroen C5 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C5 weights approximately 97 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, 2008 Citroen C5, 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, 2008 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2008 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 503 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1597 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 66 L |
