1949 Allard J1 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1955 BMW 501 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Allard J1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Allard J1 would be higher. At 3,917 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Allard J1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1949 Allard J1. (100 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1949 Allard J1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1949 Allard J1. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Allard J1 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Allard | BMW |
| Model | J1 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3917 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2840 mm |
