1959 BMW 503 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 613 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 503 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 83 L |
