1958 BMW 501 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 825 kg more than 1958 BMW 501.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 501 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3300 mm |
