1957 BMW 501 vs. 2010 BMW X3
To start off, 2010 BMW X3 is newer by 53 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, 2010 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW X3 weights approximately 415 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 2010 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 2010 BMW X3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4569 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1676 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2797 mm |
