1958 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 43 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, 2001 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 265 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, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 501 | Signum |
Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2958 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |