1957 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 52 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 501 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.
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, 2009 Volvo S40, 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1957 BMW 501 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 501 | S40 |
Year Released | 1957 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1339 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |