1958 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 44 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 175 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, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | BMW | Acura |
| Model | 501 | CL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
