1956 BMW 503
The descriptions of the Classic Cars in the Directory were partly generated or supplemented with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The content may occasionally not always be entirely accurate or factually correct despite careful checking.
The BMW 503 is a luxury car that was produced by BMW from 1956 to 1959. This car was designed to be a grand tourer, meaning it was designed for long journeys that covered a lot of distance. The BMW 503 combined luxurious comfort with high performance, making it a popular choice for car enthusiasts.
Let's look at some technical details of this beautiful machine:
Engine:
The BMW 503 was powered by a 3.2-liter V8 engine that produced 140 horsepower. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission and was capable of a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h). The engine had dual Zenith 32 NDIX carburetors, which were responsible for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.
Suspension:
The suspension system used in the BMW 503 was advanced for its time. The front suspension was made up of double wishbones, coil springs, and hydraulic dampers. The rear suspension featured a live axle with half-elliptic leaf springs and hydraulic dampers. This combination provided a comfortable ride and excellent handling.
Brakes:
The BMW 503 was fitted with hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels. The brakes were assisted by a vacuum booster and provided excellent stopping power. The car was also equipped with a handbrake that acted on the rear wheels.
Steering:
The BMW 503 featured a recirculating ball steering system that provided precise control and a good feel for the road. The steering was assisted by a hydraulic pump, which made it easy to operate.
Body:
The BMW 503 was built on a steel frame, which was covered by an aluminum body. The body was beautifully designed with smooth curves and a distinctive grille. The car had two doors and four seats. The interior featured leather upholstery, wooden trim, and a Becker Mexico radio. The car was available in several colors, including black, blue, silver, and white.
Overall, the BMW 503 was a stunning car with advanced technical specifications for its time. It combined luxury, comfort, and high performance, making it a highly sought-after grand tourer. Today, it is still appreciated by car enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
Milestones
- Introduction of the BMW 503 in 1956 as a luxury grand tourer - Designed by Albrecht von Goertz, a German industrial designer - Equipped with a 140 horsepower V8 engine - Featured a stylish, sporty exterior design with chrome accents and a low nose - Upholstered in leather and had wood trim accents in the interior - Was one of the most expensive cars of its time with a base price of $11,000 - Had a limited production run from 1956 to 1959, with only 413 units produced - Was praised for its performance and comfort, but suffered from poor sales due to its high price point and competition from other luxury cars like Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar - Became a collectible car in the following decades and is now widely regarded as a classic car iconTechnical
- Engine: 3.2-liter aluminum alloy V8 - Horsepower: 140 hp - Top speed: 118 mph - Transmission: four-speed manual - Suspension: Dual A-Arm & Coil Spring Front, Rigid Axle & Coil Spring Rear - Brake system: power hydraulics with 11-inch front and rear drums - Wheelbase: 2,650 mm (104.3 in) - Curb weight: 1,420 kg (3,131 lb) - Body style: 2-door convertible, 2-door coupe - Production years: 1956-1959 - Total production: 413 - Designer: Albrecht von Goertz - Features: leather interior, power windows, optional air conditioning - Retail price (1956): $8,500Related manufacturer
SUPERMIND TRIVIA