1955 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1996 Buick Riviera is newer by 41 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick Riviera (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Riviera weights approximately 355 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.
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, 1996 Buick Riviera, 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. 1996 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1996 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |
