1955 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Porsche 911
To start off, 1996 Porsche 911 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche 911 (430 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501.
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 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2280 mm |
