1957 BMW 501 vs. 1991 Volvo 960
To start off, 1991 Volvo 960 is newer by 34 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, 1991 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 960 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1957 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1991 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
