1957 BMW 501 vs. 2010 Volvo S80
To start off, 2010 Volvo S80 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo S80 weights approximately 301 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, 2010 Volvo S80, 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, 2010 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 2010 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2835 mm |
