1957 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Opel Omega
To start off, 2001 Opel Omega is newer by 44 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Omega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Omega (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Omega should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Omega weights approximately 230 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, 2001 Opel Omega, 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, 2001 Opel Omega (290 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Omega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 2001 Opel Omega | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 501 | Omega |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
