2008 BMW 525 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1956 BMW 501.
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, 2008 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3166 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
