1955 BMW 501 vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1978 Ford Mustang is newer by 23 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (138 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang.
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 | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
