1955 BMW 501 vs. 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 281 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 | 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 501 | Bel Air |
Year Released | 1955 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3860 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 90.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1626 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2990 mm |