2004 BMW 525 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2004 BMW 525 is newer by 47 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, 2004 BMW 525 (184 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 525 weights approximately 145 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, 2004 BMW 525 (237 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 525 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
