1959 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 50 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 135 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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, 2009 Cadillac BLS (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 503 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 58 L |
