1958 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 51 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (259 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501.
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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (253 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 501 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 259 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 253 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
