1955 BMW 501 vs. 1968 Plymouth VIP
To start off, 1968 Plymouth VIP is newer by 13 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 5,208 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Plymouth VIP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Plymouth VIP (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Plymouth VIP should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Plymouth VIP weights approximately 302 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. 1968 Plymouth VIP 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. 1968 Plymouth VIP will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1968 Plymouth VIP | |
| Make | BMW | Plymouth |
| Model | 501 | VIP |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1647 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3030 mm |
