1956 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 52 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 501 | Passat |
Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |