1955 BMW 501 vs. 2000 BMW M3
To start off, 2000 BMW M3 is newer by 45 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW M3 (325 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW M3 weights approximately 225 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 | 2000 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
