1956 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 56 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 125 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 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 501 | Passat |
Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4771 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2712 mm |