1955 BMW 501 vs. 1988 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1988 Ford Fairlane is newer by 33 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 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Fairlane (138 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 285 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. 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 | 1988 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
