1958 BMW 501 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
