1958 BMW 501 vs. 2008 BMW 328
To start off, 2008 BMW 328 is newer by 50 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, 2008 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501.
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, 2008 BMW 328, 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, 2008 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2008 BMW 328 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| 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 |
