2003 BMW M3 vs. 1956 BMW 503
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 47 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. Both 2003 BMW M3 and 1956 BMW 503 are equipped with a 3,168 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 115 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 1956 BMW 503 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | M3 | 503 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |