1958 BMW 501 vs. 1985 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1985 Peugeot 205 is newer by 27 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Peugeot 205 (335 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Peugeot 205 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1985 Peugeot 205.
Because 1985 Peugeot 205 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, 1985 Peugeot 205 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, 1985 Peugeot 205 (400 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Peugeot 205 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 1985 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 501 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1773 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
