1957 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 315 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 Renault Vel Satis, 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 Renault Vel Satis (393 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 501 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2850 mm |
