1955 BMW 501 vs. 1979 Buick Century
To start off, 1979 Buick Century is newer by 24 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 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1979 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Century weights approximately 85 kg more 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1979 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | Century |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
