1956 BMW 501 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 1975 Volvo 240 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Let's talk about torque, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
