1971 BMW 3 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 12 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, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 3 | 503 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 75 L |