1955 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 275 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 | 1996 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5737 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
