1955 BMW 501 vs. 1981 BMW 520
To start off, 1981 BMW 520 is newer by 26 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, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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 | 1981 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 501 | 520 |
Year Released | 1955 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1220 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |