2002 Audi A3 vs. 1958 BMW 503
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 Audi A3.
Because 1958 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 1958 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3, 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, 2002 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 1958 BMW 503 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 503 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
