1955 BMW 501 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 1957 Porsche 356 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 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 10 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356. 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 Porsche 356 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | 501 | 356 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 855 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2110 mm |