1955 BMW 501 vs. 1985 Fiat Panda
To start off, 1985 Fiat Panda is newer by 30 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 66 more horse power than 1985 Fiat Panda. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1985 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 | 1985 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 501 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 64.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2180 mm |
