2007 BMW X3 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 50 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, 2007 BMW X3 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 360 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.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
