1957 BMW 501 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 1975 Volvo 240 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240.
Let's talk about torque, 1957 BMW 501 (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1957 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
