1958 BMW 501 vs. 1995 BMW S3
To start off, 1995 BMW S3 is newer by 37 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, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 320 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 1995 BMW S3 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 501 | S3 |
Year Released | 1958 | 1995 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 338 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 260 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1725 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |