1958 BMW 501 vs. 2005 BMW X5
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 47 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, 2005 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 765 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 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2005 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 520 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
