1959 BMW 503 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 53 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, 2012 BMW X3 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 290 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 503 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 67 L |
