1955 BMW 501 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 35 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, 1990 Mercury Tracer (127 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer.
Because 1955 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 501 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
