2003 BMW 520 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1957 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, 1957 BMW 501 (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1957 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 520 | 501 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |