1955 BMW 501 vs. 1983 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1983 Ford Mustang is newer by 28 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, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1983 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1185 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 |
