1955 BMW 501 vs. 1992 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 1992 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 37 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, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
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 | 1992 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 501 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |
