1950 BMW 340 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1955 BMW 501 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1950 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1950 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1950 BMW 340. 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:
| 1950 BMW 340 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 340 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2840 mm |
