1958 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep 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 Saab 03-Sep (227 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501.
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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 501 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
