1958 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2012 Dodge Ram is newer by 54 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 6,690 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Ram (350 HP @ 3013 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1132 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.
Because 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 Dodge Ram 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, 2012 Dodge Ram (827 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 605 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2012 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 501 | Ram |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 6690 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3013 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 827 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 6300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 4080 mm |
