1957 BMW 501 vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 501 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
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 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (250 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 501 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
