1956 BMW 501 vs. 2007 Volvo V70
To start off, 2007 Volvo V70 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo V70 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501.
Because 1956 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V70, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volvo V70 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2007 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
