1958 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Chevrolet SSR
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 45 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 749 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2003 Chevrolet SSR | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | SSR |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 449 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2154 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
