1957 BMW 501 vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 51 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, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 501 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW 318.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1957 BMW 501 (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1957 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1957 BMW 501 | 2008 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 501 | 318 |
Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |