1957 BMW 501 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 32 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 18 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 501 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1957 BMW 501 (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1957 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
1957 BMW 501 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 501 | 440 |
Year Released | 1957 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |