1955 BMW 501 vs. 1964 NSU Prinz
To start off, 1964 NSU Prinz is newer by 9 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 80 more horse power than 1964 NSU Prinz. (30 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1964 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1964 NSU Prinz. 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 | 1964 NSU Prinz | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 501 | Prinz |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2010 mm |
