1959 BMW 503 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 381 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 Volvo XC70, 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 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 503 | XC70 |
Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 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 | 1881 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4838 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1862 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1604 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2815 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 70 L |