1959 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2009 Opel Insignia 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 Opel Insignia (321 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503.
Because 2009 Opel Insignia 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, 2009 Opel Insignia 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, 2009 Opel Insignia (435 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2009 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 503 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| 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 | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2737 mm |
