1957 BMW 501 vs. 1998 Buick Signia
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 41 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 335 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.
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, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1998 Buick Signia | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | Signia |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
