1958 BMW 501 vs. 1987 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1987 Buick Riviera is newer by 29 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Riviera (150 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Riviera weights approximately 96 kg more than 1958 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Buick Riviera, 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, 1987 Buick Riviera (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 1987 Buick Riviera | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 501 | Riviera |
Year Released | 1958 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1501 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |