1956 BMW 501 vs. 2007 BMW X5
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 is newer by 51 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 795 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 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 (476 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2007 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 476 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2940 mm |
