2003 Audi A8 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 44 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, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 90 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, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 503 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
