1958 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 05-Sep 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 05-Sep (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501.
Because 2012 Saab 05-Sep is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Saab 05-Sep 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 Saab 05-Sep (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 2012 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 501 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5009 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2837 mm |
