1959 BMW 503 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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, 1959 BMW 503 (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3, 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, 1959 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1959 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 503 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 503 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
