1955 BMW 501 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 43 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 53 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
