2008 BMW 530 vs. 1956 BMW 503
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 52 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1956 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 1956 BMW 503 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 503 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
