1958 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 105 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 501 | Vectra |
Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1510 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4600 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |