1997 BMW M3 vs. 1956 BMW 503
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1956 BMW 503 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M3 | 503 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
