1986 AC Ace vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 1986 AC Ace is newer by 28 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, 1986 AC Ace (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1986 AC Ace.
Because 1986 AC Ace 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, 1986 AC Ace 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, 1958 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (214 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Ace | 501 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2840 mm |
