1958 BMW 501 vs. 2008 BMW 650
To start off, 2008 BMW 650 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 650 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 650 weights approximately 449 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, 2008 BMW 650 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 650 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 650 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 650 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2790 mm |
