1958 BMW 501 vs. 2004 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 46 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 210 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2004 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
