1955 BMW 501 vs. 1954 Buick 40
To start off, 1955 BMW 501 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Buick 40 (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. 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 | 1954 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1675 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3110 mm |
