1956 BMW 501 vs. 1999 BMW 325
To start off, 1999 BMW 325 is newer by 43 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, 1999 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 325 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 325 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, 1999 BMW 325 (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1999 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
