1958 BMW 501 vs. 2007 BMW 550
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 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 4,797 cc, 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (657 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 519 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 550 weights approximately 255 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 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 550 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 501 | 550 |
Year Released | 1958 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4797 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 657 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 490 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1660 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |