1955 BMW 501 vs. 1961 Citroen 2CV
To start off, 1961 Citroen 2CV 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 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 100 more horse power than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1961 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Citroen 2CV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Citroen 2CV | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | 2CV |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 375 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 10 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 62 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
