1955 BMW 501 vs. 1948 Bristol 401
To start off, 1955 BMW 501 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Bristol 401 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 25 more horse power than 1948 Bristol 401. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1948 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1948 Bristol 401. 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:
1955 BMW 501 | 1948 Bristol 401 | |
Make | BMW | Bristol |
Model | 501 | 401 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1948 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1969 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2900 mm |