1955 BMW 501 vs. 1959 Rover P5
To start off, 1959 Rover P5 is newer by 4 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Rover P5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1959 Rover P5. (106 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Rover P5 weights approximately 239 kg more than 1955 BMW 501.
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. 1959 Rover P5 has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1959 Rover P5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 BMW 501 | 1959 Rover P5 | |
Make | BMW | Rover |
Model | 501 | P5 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 77.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 105 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1584 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |