1958 BMW 501 vs. 2007 BMW 335
To start off, 2007 BMW 335 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 335 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501.
Because 2007 BMW 335 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, 2007 BMW 335 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, 2007 BMW 335 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 335 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 335 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
