1955 BMW 501 vs. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 21 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 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster 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. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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. 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 BMW 501 | 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 501 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1955 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3344 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |