BMW 503
BMW's elegant 1950s grand tourer and the sophisticated sibling to the 507 roadster.
- Power
- 140 bhp
- Top speed
- 118 mph
- Est. value
- $160k–$350k
About the BMW 503
Launched alongside the 507 at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, the 503 was BMW's attempt to capture the luxury grand touring market. Designed by Albrecht von Goertz, it featured a clean, modern aluminium body and was the first German car to offer electrically operated windows. While it shared its 3.2-litre V8 engine with the 507, the 503 was built for comfort rather than outright sportiness, offering a 2+2 seating configuration. Despite its technical excellence and beauty, high production costs led to a limited run, making it one of the rarest post-war BMWs.
BMW 503 specs
The BMW 503 produces 140 bhp (104 kW) and 216 Nm (159 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 503 |
| Trim | 3.2 |
| Years | 1956–1959 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 412 built |
| Engine | 3.2-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,168 cc (3.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 140 bhp (104 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 216 Nm (159 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 93 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 503 worth?
A typical BMW 503 is estimated to be worth $160,000 – $350,000 (about £119,000 – £261,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 503 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 503 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 503 fun facts
- The 503 was the first German car to feature electrically operated windows and an electrically operated convertible top.
- BMW lost money on every 503 and 507 built, nearly leading the company to bankruptcy before the success of the 'Neue Klasse' models.
- Of the 412 units produced, only 273 were Coupés, with the remaining 139 being Cabriolets.
