1958 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 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, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 33 kg more 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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 1958 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
