1958 BMW 501 vs. 2007 BMW 325
To start off, 2007 BMW 325 is newer by 49 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, 2007 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 15 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2007 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2007 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2497 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 | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
