1959 BMW 503 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 51 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 67 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 2010 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 503 | Passat |
Year Released | 1959 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4775 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1821 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |