1956 BMW 501 vs. 2010 Volvo S80
To start off, 2010 Volvo S80 is newer by 54 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, 2010 Volvo S80 (217 HP) has 79 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S80 weights approximately 354 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 2010 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S80 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, 2010 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2010 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2776 mm |
