1999 BMW 540 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 40 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 271 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.
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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 540 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 540 | 503 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 439 Nm | 222 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |