1955 BMW 501 vs. 1961 Cadillac Eldorado
To start off, 1961 Cadillac Eldorado is newer by 6 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 6,390 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Cadillac Eldorado (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 785 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 | 1961 Cadillac Eldorado | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 501 | Eldorado |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 6390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 98.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3300 mm |
